Pet & Family Photos With The Grinch To Benefit NAWS Mokena

MOKENA, IL — The Grinch and his friends will visit Mokena for photo ops this weekend, with donations to benefit NAWS Mokena's medical fund. The event comes as fundraising is crucial for the no-kill humane society, who said they're facing an influx of owner surrenders, strays, and ill animals this holiday season.

The event, to be held at Resale For Rescues, 11134 Front St., is set for Sunday, Dec. 22 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Pictures can be taken on cameras or cell phones.

Free will donations made during the event will benefit the no-kill humane society, located at 9981 190th St., in Mokena. NAWS offers dog and cat adoptions, as well as veterinary care.

NAWS staff on Friday told supporters they'd recently taken in 15 cats left at their door overnight.

"This holiday season has been hitting us hard with sick or injured homeless pets," Becca Keller of NAWS shared on social media. "...The amount of owner surrenders, strays, or dogs on euthanasia lists is never ending. It seems it gets worse every year.

"We would do anything for these animals, truly. But unfortunately, money and funding is always a barrier for us. Our hearts are too big for our pockets! These hospital bills add up quickly. And not just that, every time we test an animal it costs us $20. When an animal is positive for something, we have to test them all...which becomes very expensive.

"We know that our NAWS army is always behind us, and we are asking for a Christmas miracle this holiday season! Consider gifting us and these animals some hope this season."

Find out more about NAWS and learn how you can help.