The Stillwater Elementary Kindness Club made a “paws-itive” difference for many local animals after organizing their third annual school-wide shelter drive for the Saratoga County Animal Shelter and Lucky Puppy Rescue. From Jan. 15-28, the school community collected essential care items for animals hoping to find their forever homes.

“This supply drive is incredibly close to our hearts, as many of us are devoted animal lovers or have rescue pets,” said Emily Malinowski, third-grade teacher and advisor of the Kindness Club.

Inspired by the impact of past donations, students were determined to make this year’s drive the most successful yet. The Kindness Club began with outreach, enlisting the help of fellow classmates to spread the word about the items needed, which included towels, blankets, dish soap, trash bags, wire crates, toys, chew bones, treats, and wet and dry food for dogs/cats. To generate widespread awareness, club members created vibrant posters to display around the school and sent flyers home with students.

Donations poured in as the Kindness Club beamed with pride, knowing their hard work and the Stillwater Elementary community’s generosity would greatly benefit the animals at the Saratoga County Animal Shelter and Lucky Puppy Rescue.

“When we all pitch in and come together, we can do so much to help a cause. I’m so proud of the school and the students who worked so hard to give back to local animal shelters,” Ms. Malinowski said.

The Kindness Club’s efforts were celebrated at the Stillwater Get Together on Jan. 28. Surrounded by fellow students, teachers, staff and community members, the club expressed gratitude to all involved, showcased the impressive number of donated items and underscored the significance of community service. As fifth grader Eden Sawner explained, “The animal shelter drive is so important because we give back to animals without homes – animals that we love.”

After packing up the donations with some help from the Kindness Club, Ms. Malinowski delivered the items to the Saratoga County Animal Shelter and Lucky Puppy Rescue on Feb. 19, complete with heartfelt notes from students. According to Ms. Malinowski, “Both organizations were very grateful for the items supplied by the school.”

The Stillwater Elementary Kindness Club’s annual shelter drive is more than just an event; it’s a heartwarming initiative that brings the school community together to help local animals while promoting collaboration, community engagement, and philanthropy. By working towards a shared goal, students strengthen their connections with one another and the community, building a beloved tradition that instills kindness for generations to come.