Maria Ducasse of Brooklyn is an inspiring example of how one person can unite a community to ensure no one loses their pet because of hardship.
Three years ago, she founded East New York Dog Lovers a nonprofit that has grown to have 29 foster homes, 200 volunteers, and helped reconnect more than 50 dogs with their people. It’s a safety net where struggling pet owners get emergency fostering, help with medical bills, and food for their fur babies.
“Our biggest mission is to end pet surrendering,” Maria told Chewy. “So whatever help may be needed—food, vet care, whatever you need to keep your pet at home—we are willing to supply and help you.”
Maria has arranged for people struggling with homelessness, domestic violence, and medical emergencies to connect with fosters who care for their pets until they’re back on their feet. Her hard work keeps families intact and pets safe.
“We just keep getting bigger,” Maria says. “Every time we go out there and help somebody, they’re like, ‘I’m in—how can I help?'”
Maria’s wonderful work was recently profiled by Chewy in the video above entitled, “A Day in the Life of a Community Pet Foster.”