Weis Markets raises $191,000 for Paws for Pets

SUNBURY, Pa. — Weis Markets on Tuesday reported its Paws for Pets program generated $191,000 in donations and pet supplies for 94 local animal shelters and rescue organizations in its five-state market area, nearly double the total raised in 2011.

The four-week program ran through Memorial Day weekend in the company's stores in Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, New York and West Virginia. During this time, 64 stores also hosted pet adopt-a-thon events with local pet organizations.

"This year, we added a number of donation options, and as a result we nearly doubled what we raised in 2011," stated Dennis Curtin, director of public relations. "Many of our associates worked hard to increase overall awareness of our program; we are grateful for their efforts and we are also grateful to our customers for their generosity at a time when animal rescue agencies are seeing record demand."

In 2011, Weis Markets raised $98,000 for Paws for Pets. A new option this year allowed customers to make donations when they purchased vouchers for $1, $3 or $5, or Paws for Pets bracelets for $1, with all proceeds donated at store level to local shelters.

Weis Markets' customers also donated dog, cat, puppy and kitten food, cat litter, collars, harnesses and leashes, toys and treats, pet shampoos, nail clippers, pet brushes, combs, food and water bowls, dishwashing liquid, bleach, new mops and brooms, towels/washcloths and powder-free latex gloves.