(Jackson) – Giving is better than receiving for youth Cameron Lord of Jackson. In a touching display of generosity and compassion, Cameron happily gifted the $3,650 he received at his recent 11th birthday party to the Ocean County Animal Facilities located in his hometown. The gift is intended to cover adoption fees, which he hopes will inspire people to open their hearts and adopt a cat or dog.
“We are profoundly grateful for Cameron’s remarkable generosity and his passion for helping our shelter animals find forever homes,” said Daniel Regenye, Ocean County Health Department Public Health Coordinator. “His donation will significantly impact the lives of these pets and the families who will adopt them.”
The money Cameron donated to the county shelter was collected through generous gifts of money from family and friends. He even upped the ante thanks to several gift baskets donated by area businesses that were raffled off at his birthday bash with proceeds added to the animal shelter pot.
Gary Quinn, Ocean County Commissioner Deputy Director added, “The Ocean County Commissioners and the Ocean County Board of Health extend their heartfelt thanks to Cameron and his family for their extraordinary kindness. His actions serve as a powerful reminder of the positive impression that one young individual can have on their community.”
Cameron’s mother, Kaitlin Lord, described her soon-to-be 6th grader as a sweet boy with a big heart who has donated to groups in need for the last 5 and-a-half years – but has a real soft spot for the shelter animals. “He came to his dad and I earlier this year and said he wanted to raise and donate funds again for his birthday to assist the cats and dogs in the Jackson animal shelter. He never asks for anything for himself on his birthday and would rather help the homeless animals in need of a second chance.”
A devoted animal lover, with 2 Boxers in the family, Cameron is optimistic his initiative will bring new hope to the adoption prospects for all the pets at the animal facility – especially the dogs currently housed the longest or may have an adoption restriction.
Cameron told shelter staff that “his favorite is Lola,” a super-sweet Pit Bull/Lab mix who would flourish in a good home that doesn’t have any other pets in the family. Three other dogs Cameron hopes to see someone open their heart to is Graham, a 2-year-old sweet and affectionate Bulldog mix; Beau, an energetic and playful 2-year-old Pitbull mix; Zicario, a 1–2-year-old American Bulldog/Husky mix.
However, Cameron wouldn’t want people to adopt just because it’s a chance to obtain a free pet. Shelter management advises serious adopters to do their homework and never make an impulse decision. Pets are a lifelong commitment.
Regenye added, “This money will cover the costs for many adoptions down the road but please keep in mind pets are a lifelong commitment. There will always be additional expenses such as food, vet care, toys, or grooming – not to mention the consistent quality time needed for companionship and exercise.” “Cameron is such a remarkable and special boy to give his birthday money to the shelter,” remarked Cristen Luciano, Shelter Supervisor, Ocean County Animal Facilities. “He was a little shy when we first met but when Cameron saw the shelter dogs his face just lit up and you can see the compassion he has for these pets. His generosity is certainly going to make many of these pets and future adopters very happy.”
For more information on how you can adopt Graham, Beau, Lola, Zicario, or any other pets, please visit the Ocean County Animal Facility at 615 Freemont Avenue, Jackson or contact us at 732-341-9700.