Eight-year-old girl leads heartwarming effort for Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary

An outstanding eight-year-old girl has launched a heartfelt campaign to support Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary’s Christmas Shoebox Appeal.

Lilly Arna Dawson, a pupil at Newhey Primary School, has taken it upon herself to raise awareness and donations for the animals in need this festive season.

With a deep love for animals and a personal connection to the sanctuary, Lilly decided to take action after seeing the shoebox appeal on Facebook.

The young animal lover, who has a rescue dog named Narla and two rabbits, created a video with the help of her mum, Casey Dawson, to encourage others to contribute to the cause.
 

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“I want to raise awareness so more people can help and bring things for the animals for Christmas that don't have a warm house and family to look after them,” said Lilly.

Lilly’s compassion for animals stems from her own experience with rescue pets and her admiration for the work Bleakholt does in caring for animals without loving homes.

She is now making shoe boxes filled with treats and essential items for the sanctuary and is encouraging others to do the same.

 

 

Her mum, Casey, expressed her pride in Lilly’s efforts. She said: “I am so proud of Lilly wanting to help the animals at Bleakholt, not only with her own donation but raising more awareness so the animals have some treats for Christmas.

“My grandad used to take me to Bleakholt when I was younger as he had many dogs. It is amazing Lilly has this passion too, and if it was up to her, we would have a sanctuary of our own and bring them all home.”

Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary is a well-known local haven for animals. Their shoebox appeal invites donations of items like toys, food, and bedding to ensure their animals are cared for during the holiday season.

Lilly’s campaign is bringing local attention to the appeal and encouraging Rochdale residents to support the cause.

To learn more about the Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary Christmas Shoebox Appeal or to get involved, visit: https://www.bleakholt.org/