On October 24, the Foundation for TJO Animals will host its second Reese Fund: Day of Compassion, bringing our community together for 24 hours of giving in support of animals and the people who love them.
This special day supports two critical initiatives: the Reese Fund, which provides emergency care for abused and severely neglected animals, and the Reese Pet Food Initiative, which helps families facing financial hardship keep their pets healthy, safe, and at home.
Since December, the Foundation has provided $20,000 through the Reese Fund to cover the cost of emergency care for animals that have endured severe neglect, cruelty, and abuse. Unfortunately, we continue to see these heartbreaking cases arrive to TJO. Through this event, we hope to replenish our fund so we can continue providing critical care to animals in desperate need.
At the same time, TJO continues to see an increasing number of animals arriving severely underweight or emaciated. The Reese Pet Food Initiative was created to help address this need before families reach the point of having to surrender a beloved pet because they can no longer afford to feed them.
Since its launch, the initiative has distributed more than 2,000 pounds of pet food to families experiencing financial hardship.
Through partnerships with Lorraine's Soup Kitchen in Chicopee and The Gray House in Springfield, we provide pet food and supplies to families who need a little extra support to keep their pets healthy, safe, and at home where they belong. Our next goal is to expand the program into Holyoke, allowing us to serve all three communities within TJO's service area.
Alongside our 24-hour online fundraiser, we will once again host an in-person pet food drive at the Thomas J. O'Connor Animal Control & Adoption Center, 627 Cottage Street, Springfield.
Specific event hours will be announced soon.
WE ARE COLLECTING:
We are also inviting local businesses to host their own donation drives. Participating businesses will be recognized on social media and will receive a Community Partner in Compassion Certificate as a thank-you for their generosity and support.
Stop by with donations and grab one of our exclusive Reese Day t‑shirts, available both online and onsite at TJO for 1 day only!
Please consider making a gift on October 24th during the Reese Fund: Day of Compassion. Our goal is to raise $10,000 for the Reese Fund and to collect 600lbs of pet food for Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen and the Gray House. With your help, we can give animals a second chance, keep pets fed, and strengthen the bond between people and their animals.
Don’t want to wait until October 24th? You can make your donation today.

