The Berks Animal Rescue League in Berks County, PA, is offers a program that I wish all shelters would consider…they allow children to come to the shelter to read to their homeless cats to help soothe the shelter cats. Through their program called ‘Book Buddies’, children in grades 1-8 who are able to read at any level can sign up at the front desk of the shelter to read to the cats in their adoption room.
The program helps children improve their reading skills while also helping the shelter animals. Cats find the rhythmic sound of a voice very comforting and soothing.
The Berks Animal Rescue League goes even further by offering prizes to the kids who participate.
Here’s what one parent had to say about the Book Buddies program:
“I want to thank you for giving my son the opportunity to participate in a program such as this one. I believe it truly helps him to not only read, but to help the animals who do not have warm loving homes, and that we must help speak up for the critters who do not have a voice.” – Katie Procyk
Share this with your friends and family! More shelters should offers programs like this to benefit kids and the lonely animals waiting for their forever homes!
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