Earlier this year, thanks to a wonderful commitment from our donor Ms Seymour, we were able to launch the Chelsea & Mr French Fund aimed at providing urgent, life-changing support for vulnerable dogs and their owners when they need it most, whether that be due to domestic violence, homelessness or other challenging situations.
We’re delighted to report the first round of grants have now been made and really are Making a Difference for Dogs:
Refuge4Pets – Working across Devon and Cornwall, Refuge4Pets is a small but well-established charity providing fostering services to enable victims of domestic abuse to escape and later be reunited with their dog in a safe environment. The charity needed urgent assistance in paying veterinary fees; a result of ensuring all dogs are returned to full health after escaping their abusive household.
“The grant from the Chelsea & Mr French Fund has been a true lifeline to our charity, enabling us to pay vet fees that means we can look after dogs who have escaped the most terrifying circumstances with their owners. We are so very grateful for Ms Seymour’s support.”
Mary Wakeman, Chief Executive, Refuge4Pets
SSAFA – The SSAFA is a charity supporting members of the Armed Forces and is the UK’s oldest military charity. The grant from the Chelsea & Mr French Fund has been made specifically to support their homeless shelters in London, which allow Veterans to move in with their dogs, preventing the unnecessary separation of homeless people and their best friends.
Endeavour (Paws for Kids) – Now in its 25th year of operation, the Endeavour Project covers the North West of England, and offers dog fostering services for individuals and families needing to flee domestic violence situations, working by the strapline, “No one gets left behind”. The charity also provides their Evergreen service – providing mobile veterinary care to elderly people who are immobile and cannot take their dog to a veterinary practice. Endeavour received a grant towards vital veterinary bills.
Our Special Friends – This charity works to help people experiencing vulnerability to experience and benefit from the human/animal bond. Whether elderly, suffering from mental or physical health issues, experiencing domestic violence situations or are being made homeless, Our Special Friends is there to help. Their grant is to be used specifically to fund a new role – Animal Companionship Practitioner.
As these grants are spent, we will issue further updates of the difference that has been made and the positive impact achieved for both dogs and the humans who love them.
“I am blessed to be able to support these incredible charities as they undertake what is essential but incredibly sensitive work. I look forward to seeing these organisations grow in the future and continue to offer life-changing services.”
Ms Lisa Seymour
Charities wishing understand more about the Chelsea & Mr French Fund’s grant criteria and application process can do so here.