Burlington teens work paper beat for local animals

Two Burlington teens have made it their mission to help Burlington's furry friends through annual donations to the Humane Society.

Isabelle and Nathan Bell collect for the animals in need on their paper route and this Christmas donated $200.

Isabelle, 13, and Nathan, 15, have been delivering on Beechwood Crescent for about five years, mother Karin said.

"Both of the kids love animals," she said. "They know the names of all the neighbourhood dogs and love visiting the Humane Society cats. They know that the Humane Society needs donations for food and medicine and want to make sure the animals are looked after." 

Nathan has now moved on to a new part-time job, but the siblings hope to keep up their annual Christmas donation.

"We do get many donations from children and we are so appreciative of it," said Doug Shirton of the Burlington Humane Society, which operates a no-kill shelter.

"Many children will donate money they receive on their birthday in lieu of gifts. Others such as Isabelle and Nathan raise money by other means. It means a lot to us as it shows that the children have a humane consciousness."

Burlington Humane Society also operates a Kids Club, teaching children how to care for animals and be safe around them.

"It warms our hearts to see that there are children that have learned that on  their own," Shirton said. "All the money that the children bring in goes directly to helping the animals with their food, litter and veterinary care. We receive donations from children about half a dozen times a year. 

"We always recognize the children on our social media pages, so they get the recognition they deserve. Helping animals really shows that they are thinking about those less fortunate than themselves and helping those that can't help themselves."