Sixth grader raises funds for shelters
Like many kids, Hawthorn Middle North sixth-grader Alyssa Locascio loves animals.
However, she has taken her passion to the next level, launching a “Don’t Shop — Adopt” campaign to encourage people to adopt pets from shelters.
From the day the family picked up its first rescue, Luke, nearly six years ago, Alyssa has been in love with animals and would like to be a vet when she gets older.
After watching videos depicting the sadness of animal abuse and the happiness of animal rescue opportunities, Alyssa decided she needed to raise money to help no-kill shelters care for animals and raise awareness for shelter adoptions.
She raised and donated money from lemonade stands she had but wanted to do more and offer something people can show to others and spread the word.
Alyssa and her mother designed purple, blue and white rubber wristbands with the slogan “Don’t Shop — Adopt” that she purchased with her own money.
She has been selling them for $2 each. Because of the high demand, wristbands can be purchased in bulk so $1.70 of the $2 can be donated. Recipients are Save-A-Pet in Grayslake, Animal House in Huntley and WAGS in Waukegan.
At home, she has three rescues: Luke, an Australian cattle/border collie mix; Ruby, a Jack Russell/beagle mix; and Champ, a beagle.
To order a wristband, email aalpuplover123@gmail.com or sandralocascio@gmail.com. Orders will be dropped off if nearby or mailed.