Fundraising underway for Kate’s dog

A year ago her mother, Ann, began the application process to receive a specially trained dog for autistic children through National Service Dogs based in Cambridge, Ontario.

Ann Harrington delivered the good news to Kate on a cake when she found out.

“She was pretty excited. She almost started to cry. I took her to Pizza Delight and gave her a cake at the end of the meal,” said Harrington.

Kate read the icing script on top of the cake with a little help: “You’re getting a dog!”

The family is now working towards raising $18,000 to assist with training and other costs associated with the dog. Close to $1300 has been collected to date and Harrington is thrilled with how so many in the community are rallying to assist.

Her landlord has offered to supply material for fencing, which students at NSCC Burridge campus will be installing.

Mention Kate’s dog account when you return bottles at the depot on Water Street and the money will be directed to her.

Change cans are popping up all over town, with Thibault’s Bakery leading the drive. Owner Richard Thibault has even published a facebook site for Kate, (Kate Harrington) which now has 1200 members.

A boxing club in Ontario has donated money from a match on May 12.

The bands Never, Owen and Gerry, and High Road will be holding fundraising concerts for Kate later this year.

A large yardsale will be held (date to be announced). Yarmouth paramedics will be fundraising for Kate during their open house later this month. The Wesleyan Children's Church is planning an event, a bike ride ‘Ride for Paws’ is going to be held, and raffles with donated items are coming up.

We’re falling together pretty good,” said Harrington.

For more information about upcoming events, and/or to help Kate with her goal, visit the website:

paws4kate.tripod.com.