I t would be the puppies who enjoyed the gifts the most because they were curious, playful and teething. But dogs of all ages chewed on their new toys immediately during a happy moment in spite of their homeless status.
On July 1, a group of children who had recently completed fourth grade at the Millstone Township Elementary School delivered special toys to the Helmetta Regional Animal Shelter. The youngsters created 83 fleece braided chew toys under the direction of Jessica Mashkevich.
Mashkevich, a lifelong animal lover from Millstone Township, said she wanted to teach the children about the joy of giving to homeless animals. She volunteered in her daughter’s class on June 19 and gave the pupils instruction in making the special gifts.
The children delivered the gifts to the shelter and met the animals, who immediately enjoyed their new toys.
“I had a desire to teach them about kindness and generosity toward shelter dogs,” Mashkevich said. “I hope the kids feel good about doing something that matters. Teaching the next generation about kindness to animals is so important. This whole effort is near and dear to my heart.”
Mashkevich has received national attention for her work that is connected with animals. She founded Kona Benellie Designs in 2010. Her signature throwbee pet blanket is for animals. Her other popular creations include a four-in-one omnirobe bathrobe and throwbee blanket ponchos for humans.
Her desire to help at animal shelters grew after a recent visit to a local animal shelter. She went specifically to donate supplies and spend time with the dogs. She said she noticed the pups had very little to bring them comfort and security.
“Shelter life is stressful, and concrete floors can be cold and unforgiving,” Mashkevich said. “I knew a blanket would instantly bring the dogs security, comfort and warmth as they await their forever home.”
In chatting with the shelter employees, she learned that blankets are at the top of most shelter wish lists nationwide. With a desire to help, Mashkevich evolved her comfort-focused company into a social enterprise and would now match each customer purchase with a new blanket for a shelter dog in need. To find out more, visit www.konabenellie.com.
Dana Corneau, a teacher at the Millstone Township Elementary School, said there were 24 students in her class and she was impressed by the concept of making a craft for the animals in the shelter.
“It is really great for the children to give back in this way,” Corneau said. “My students have compassion, and I thought this was a fabulous idea right from the start.” Michal Cielesz, director of the Helmetta Regional Animal Shelter, was very excited about this donation. There are 60 animals including puppies and dogs currently housed at the shelter.
“This was a wonderful idea,” Cielesz said. “Anytime the children get involved, it is the best. The animals receive toys, but not as often as we would like. It is always nice to have the toys. We can use them and rewash them. It is awesome. It makes them feel calm and loved.
“The puppies seemed to get the biggest kick out of the toys,” Cielesz said. “Seeing them happy is one of my favorite parts of my job. This is awesome and it is very much a feel-good feeling.”
Cielesz said she would like the public to know there are cats, kittens, dogs and puppies available for adoption.
“We are looking for a good match for the animals we have here,” Cielesz said. “You have to see some of our animals. They are just beautiful. The majority of our animals are neutered and spayed. They are up to date with shots. It is absolutely amazing here. People are animal-friendly and the staff is very nice.”
Anyone interested in volunteering at the Helmetta Regional Animal Shelter or adopting a homeless animal can call 732- 521-6016.