According to Dogs Matter volunteer online marketing and foster operations leader Taylor Stensrud,
“Founded in 2014 by Stephen Knight, Dogs Matter is the only dog fostering program in the country that helps to temporarily house dogs during the owner’s stay at treatment for alcohol and drug addiction. Finding a temporary home for your dog while going to treatment is an issue that often gets overlooked and holds many people back from getting the timely help they need on their journey towards recovery.
“‘To me, Dogs Matter was a lifesaver,’ said Chas G. ‘My biggest roadblock about going into recovery was not being able to get my dog Porkchop back. That’s what kept me away for a long time. I was trying to get sober. Only by the grace of my higher power I was put in touch with Dogs Matter. Porkchop is my baby. I’m coming up on nine months. I have a job and signed a new lease on an apartment. And now I have the most important thing back, besides my recovery.’
“Not only does Dog Matter find the perfect foster homes for the dogs, but they also provide peer support services for up to 12-months following the successful completion of treatment and reunion of the participant with their dog. They provide regular follow-up calls, local check-ins, recovery resources in the community, assistance with vet appointments, medical expenses, rent deposits, and food as necessary to ensure a safe and healthy environment while staying sober.
“None of this would be possible without the help of North Texas supporters. Dogs Matter is almost entirely funded by private donations, with NTGD representing 15-20% each year. Dogs Matter has a continuous need for funding and has set their highest NTX Giving Day goal yet — aiming to raise $30,000 this year. They are also looking for corporate sponsorships and matching funds. Please consider giving back to the community by supporting Dogs Matter on Thursday, September 23.”
* Photo credit: Heather Gressett ** Graphic provided by Dogs Matter
In 12 years, Communities Foundation of Texas’ North Texas Giving Day has pumped more than $375 million into the North Texas community. In 2020, more than $58.8 million was raised through more than 106,000 donors benefiting over 3,200 area nonprofits.
On Thursday, September 23, support Dogs Matter by linking here and spreading the word. #NTxGivingDay