Girl scouts help ‘residents’ at local humane society

The feline residents of the West Columbia Gorge Humane Society are now enjoying a cool breeze throughout their living quarters, thanks to a donation from some local Girl Scouts.

Troop 40382 members were prompted to purchase the fans as a community service project, using the proceeds of their cookie sales and other fundraisers. Last year, they shopped for and donated pet food, toys and other needed items to the approximately 80 cats living at the shelter.

Emma Spaeth said “It was really hot in the cat (building), so it’s great we’re helping so many at once.”

Savanna Slocum agreed.

“This made me feel happy because it is always nice to help pets that are in need.”

Shannon McDaniel said, “I liked giving the fans away. I liked it mostly because I love animals, and I don’t want them to suffer in hot days.”

Mark Fruechtel, WCGHS marketing manager, said donations like this make him smile.

“Here we have a small troop of Girl Scouts who make the decision to help our animals and shelters,” he said. “The fans will not only make the environment more comfortable for the cats, but also for the volunteers who work to keep the building clean and the guests who visit to look for the special companion cat.”

Troop 40382 are Junior Girl Scouts, and meet at Gause Elementary School in Washougal.