Bethel 3rd Graders Donate to SARF
by Cynthis Morris

Four classes of Bethel Elementary School 3rd graders took a vote on whether they would exchange Christmas gifts or make donations to Sarge's Animal Rescue Foundation. In the spirit of the Season, they voted to donate to Sarge.

After the vote, their teachers, Crystal Robitshek, Holly Trull, Diane Williamson and Freida Teague told the students that donations were optional. On Wednesday, December 20, the children brought dog and cat food, animal toys and cash donations to school. Sarge Board Members Nancy Bulluck and Angela Tucci , with their foster dogs Luna and Jack, met at Bethel Elementary to collect the donations.

Ms. Robitshek told Nancy and Angela, "she and the other teachers became aware of Sarge's through the twice yearly yard sales in Maggie Valley and the August 2006 Downtown Dogwalk." Ms. Robitshek said she first phoned HAWA who recommended that she contact Sarge's regarding the donations.


Nancy and Angela went to the classrooms to personally thank the students and teachers and answered questions about Sarge's Animal Rescue Foundation while Luna had some play time with the children.

Angela, who received the phone call from Ms. Robitshek said,"We are surprised and pleased that the teachers and students at Bethel Elementary School are aware of Sarge's and wanted to help us provide for the animals we rescue from the Haywood County Shelter."

The donated cash will be put into an emergency medical fund for animals that are ill or need surgery. The food and toys will be given to the Haywood County Animal Shelter, homes fostering animals from the shelter and to needy families for their pets.

The members Sarge's Animal Rescue Foundation were very touched by the students' decision and warmly thank the 3rd graders and teachers from Bethel Elementary School for their generous donations.