Girl Raises Money for Animal Services

A little TV time for a local 10-year-old turned into a community project that got a University City neighborhood involved in helping local shelter animals.

Fifth-grader Chloe Dillingham-Jones was watching television when she saw an ad about abused and neglected animals.  The images stuck with her, and she decided she needed to do something.

"We've had animals my whole life, and it made me sad that some didn't have homes," Chloe said.

Before long, Chloe enlisted the help of family and a neighbor to bake cakes, cookies and bread.  Not willing to depend on word-of-mouth, Chloe also made flyers, posting them in her neighborhood and handing them out door-to-door. 

The result? Chloe raised $97 and some change in just two hours, selling out of every last treat.

Chloe’s parents rounded out the earnings to an even $100 and recently presented a check to the County of San Diego Department of Animal Services shelter.  The money will benefit the shelter’s medical fund.

"It felt really good to raise money for the animals. Animals that were sick will now be able to get better," Chloe said.

And, it made the shelter staff feel good to meet someone as caring as Chloe.

“In this time of economic hardship, Chloe is to be commended for her selfless act of kindness and generosity,” said Dawn Danielson, Director of the Department of Animal Services. 

“While many children are only concerned with buying the newest toy or doll, Chloe’s compassion should serve as an example for everyone.”

Chloe completed her trip to the shelter by visiting with some of the animals that will benefit from her donation.