The Petstock Foundation has launched its Christmas Project in Newcastle, calling on locals to help raise more than $520,000 this festive season to support vital animal-assisted programs that deliver comfort, care and connection to those who need it most.
This year the Foundation is partnering with national volunteer-driven charities that use assistance animals to enrich the lives of people nationwide, the two primary partners being Story Dogs and Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) Australia.
Petstock Adamstown Store Manager, Rachael Wagstaff said the outreach and support in Newcastle has been positive.
“It’s great to see people across Newcastle come together to support each other, especially kids and families who really need animal-assistance,” Rachael said.
“The generosity we’ve seen in store so far really shows how much people in Newcastle care about giving back.
“Being able to support programs that change lives in Newcastle is something we’re really proud of here at Petstock”
Naomi Mancktelow from the Petstock Foundation said the campaign showcases the profound role animals play in supporting human wellbeing.
“This campaign is about helping Australians who need it most and helping them find comfort and hope through the companionship of animals,” Naomi said.
“Both RDA and Story Dogs help more than 3,000 Australians every week access the unique emotional and physical benefits of animal assisted programs. But there are still hundreds of schools and families on waitlists for support from a number of assistance animal programs across Australia.
“By donating just $2 to the Petstock Foundation, you can help fund programs like RDA and Story Dogs, that bring assistance horses and reading dogs to communities across the country,” Naomi said.
RDA Victoria CEO, James Lantry said the organisation operates more than 70 centres nationwide, providing horse-assisted activities, and is determined to double the number of kids it can help by the end of 2026.
“I cannot tell you how it feels to see kids, and there are some kids with significant support needs, to see them just light up as they are lifted onto their horse for their weekly ride,” James said.
“Because of that joy, we are determined in our goal, and the Foundation’s Christmas Project will see more of our kids’ lives enriched and changed forever.
“Our organisation is almost entirely volunteer-run, and the effect horses have on our kids is profound. Without support and funding from donations like this, our organisation would simply cease to exist. Your donation means more children will experience the joy and independence that comes from their weekly ride,” James said.
Donations can be made at local Petstock stores.
IMAGE | Team members from Petstock Adamstown gathered around the Christmas Project tree.
