East Haven Nonprofit Helps Families Keep Pets In Their Homes

EAST HAVEN, CT — An East Haven nonprofit teamed up with a Guilford business to support families in need struggling to keep their beloved pets due to the financial hardships brought on by the coronavirus pandemic.

Connex Credit Union recently donated more than $800 to the Tail to Paw Animal Support in East Haven to help struggling families provide basic needs for their pets.

These funds were raised at Connex’s Guilford branch as part of the credit union’s Coins-for-Change­ initiative which encourages members of the local community to use Connex’s coin-cashing machines to convert their spare change into cash. A small fee is collected for these services and then donated to various charitable organizations.

Tail to Paw Support is a volunteer organization that is committed to ensuring no owner has to abandon their companion animal on the street, or at a shelter, because of their economic or housing status. To achieve their mission of “no animal left behind, and no human left alone,” Tail to Paw provides assistance with food, supplies, and basic medical visits and vaccinations for household pets.

“A huge thank you to Connex Credit Union and everyone who went out of their way to help us continue our forever mission of keeping animals in their homes,” said Bobbi Jo Evans and Kate Williams, co-founders, Tail to Paw Animal Support. “Now, more than ever, during these difficult times where countless families are feeling the economic impact of COVID-19, nobody should have to suffer the loss of a beloved pet. This money will help cover an animal’s basic needs so their owners can focus on getting back on their feet financially and emotionally.”

For more information about Tail to Paw, to donate, or to support partner programs that help supply basic pet essentials, visit tailtopaw.org.

Each year, more than $14,000 is donated through the Coins-for-Change program. New charities are selected every quarter. If you are a local nonprofit or charitable organization interested in participating in the program, please contact Anita Annunziato at aannunziato@connexcu.org or 1-800-CR-UNION.