The Forgotten Friends of Long Island (FFLI), a Plainview-based non-profit and animal rescue organization, held its third annual Let the Paws Do the Walkin' Dog Walk and Park Fair this past Sunday morning in Wantagh.
Held in , over 100 residents brought their furry friends for a day of fun and spreading awareness on pet adoption and rescue. The goal of this year’s event was raising funds to build a shelter for the FFLI.
"We've been around since 2008, and we've been operating with foster homes for pets," said Sandy Unger, Event Coordinator for FFLI.
The FFLIraised almost $14,000 over the course of four months by setting up a donation page on FirstGiving.com. Following Sunday's walk walk, FFLI was also presented with a check from Gregory Ras, Treasurer of the Hicksville Lions Club.
One of the most popular attractions at the walk was a kissing booth, which featured a dog named Titus, who was rescued from the New York City Animal & Care Control.
"Titus was on the euthanasia list, which means he would have been killed within hours,” said Unger. “Now he has a wonderful home to live in on Long Island, and he's here on a beautiful day with his own kissing booth.”
Other attractions during the fundraising event included vendors set up across Wantagh Park such as NY Party Artz, Vinyl Concepts, hot dog stands and many other local businesses. A blessing of the pets was also held by Pastor Stephen Giordano from the Massapequa Reformed Church.
"We're a small group of people that does big things for others," said Loretta Rinaldo, FFLI president.
For further information on the FFLI, visit the organization's website.
