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Partnership with the GBHS is a Blessing
Posted on March 11, 2009
Dog Jesse and Owner Reunited, Thanks to The Foundry and GBHS Bessemer, Al—On Thursday, March 12th , Jesse, a Miniature Pinscher mix who was a victim of the harsh economic times, will be reunited with her owner during a going home party at The Foundry.
For over a month, the little brown dog has been in foster care at The Foundry Women’s Center through a partnership with the Greater Birmingham Humane Society (GBHS) that places rescued pets with rescued people—women who are battling addiction of one kind or another and working to turn their lives around. The Foundry took Jesse in when her owner lost his job and then his apartment and had to move in with his parents. He was devastated he couldn’t keep Jesse but relieved she had a loving home at The Foundry until he could get back on his feet.
Jesse is one of five dogs and one puppy that have been placed at The Foundry since the program began in early 2008. Michele Heintz, director of women’s ministries at The Foundry, says the idea was born out of popular research that suggests the benefit of pet therapy in the healing process of people suffering from depression and addictions.
“And I thought what greater place to knock on the door than the Greater Birmingham Humane Society,” Heintz said. She met with Jacque Meyer, executive director of the GBHS, and together they determined a foster-care program would be the best place to start. “Our ladies dorm is now on their list of foster homes. So when they have an animal they need to take in temporarily, due to a death in the owner’s family, an illness or a move, we’re one of the first places they call.”
Heintz said the animals have been a joy to the women. “We know dogs love without any kind of prejudice or rejection, and because of their addictions, the women coming into our program have often burned their bridges. The animals bring them immediate warmth, attention and affection. It’s a win-win situation all the way around. We’re able to help the Greater Birmingham Humane Society, but for us it brings a far greater benefit in what it does for the hearts of the ladies.”
Cindy Thrasher, a graduate of The Foundry’s recovery program and contact person with the GBHS, agreed. “If our residents had pets at home, it helps them fill that void. And animals have such a calming affect because of their unconditional love. It also teaches the women responsibility when they have to think about somebody other than themselves.” The women of The Foundry’s recovery program will have a going home party as Jesse is reunited with her owner at 8:30 am on Thursday, March 12 in The Foundry Women’s Center at 1800 4th Ave. North in Bessemer. Representatives from the GBHS along with Jesse’s owner and residents from The Foundry will be attending the party.
The GBSH provides all pet food, equipment, medical care and microchipping associated with the program. The Foundry residents provide the love. For photos, interviews and other information, Leslie Freeman
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