Nease students donate food for needy pets

The St Augustine Humane Society informed Historic City News reporters that they have received approximately 300 lbs of pet food for dogs and cats from Nease High School’s student run “Panthers for Pets” organization.

Carolyn Smith, St. Augustine Humane Society’s Operations Director, told reporters that Nease High School junior Jason Lee, initiated the plea for pet food to help the Humane Society and its Pet Food Bank.

The Pet Food Bank provides short-term food and supplies to pet owners who demonstrate financial need and allows those families to receive assistance — for up to six months.

Collections came from all students at Nease while Lee and his parents weighed, recorded and transported the food to the Humane Society at 1665 Moultrie Road in St. Augustine.

According to Lee, who is an International Baccalaureate student, and president of the civic club, “Panthers for Pets” is determined to assist animals that are in need of love and food by raising money, collecting food, and providing services that pets may need.

Lee added that in August he founded the organization because there were no clubs at the school to help pets and their owners in St Johns County. Susan Szczepanik, Nease High School’s Advanced Placement history teacher, oversees the student run program.

“We are honored to be selected by Jason, the club and all of the Nease students who generously donated pet food to our food bank,” said Smith. “The holidays can be a difficult time of year; and, many pet owners need assistance with nourishment for their furry friends.”