Mon Valley Paws hosts annual ‘give back’ celebration, donates over $34K for animal shelters, care

Submitted Shown, from left, are Mon Valley Paws 2023 “Making A Difference Award” winners Roberta Boso, Jessica Cocciolone, Theresa Bashada and Dave Bashada, Elmer Spiker and Heidi Martin.

By KRISTIE LINDEN
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Mon Valley Paws is a difference-maker.
Just ask anyone who helps out or runs an animal rescue in the area — MVP goes above and beyond for those in need.
In the five years MVP has existed, more than $90,000 has been raised to care for animals — $34,515 in 2023 alone.
The mission is to bring together community members to provide assistance to individuals and nonprofits that specialize in the health care and rescue of animals.
This year, Mon Valley Paws was able to grant four animal rescues more than $5,000 each and it came at a crucial time for many of them.
As They Come Rescue, Pet Adoption League, Southwest PA. Pugs with Special Needs and the White Oak Animal Safe Haven all received $5,158.
“We partner with the shelters and rescues for two years,” MVP President Randy Marino said. “We funnel them the food they need, supplies they need. Every once in a while they’ll have an animal in need or who has special needs. For example, parvo — that’s expensive to deal with. We reach out to people we know to get supplies for them.”

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