Inventive 14-Year-Old Converts 'Extreme Couponing' Into Extreme Kindness for Animals Languishing in Shelters
For Immediate Release:
March 26, 2013
Contact:
Shakira Croce 202-483-7382
Florence, Ala. -- "Extreme couponing" has become so popular that the cable TV channel TLC even has a show by that name. And who can blame anyone for trying to save a few dollars? But 14-year-old Florence residentMonica Williford, a ninth-grader at Florence Freshman Center, has her own unique take on the hobby. That's because Monica gathers every single coupon for cat food, dog food, toys, and other companion-animal supplies that she can, then purchases the products (or even gets them for free); and donates them to her local animal shelter. "The more you save with coupons, the more you have money to donate more supplies," says Monica, who's becoming quite adept at the "business" of giving.
For going above and beyond when it comes to bringing some comfort into the lives of often-forgotten animals, Monica has received a Star Street Teamer Award from peta2, PETA's youth division.
"Monica looked at the national mini-craze of extreme couponing, and the first thing that came to her mind—and her heart—was how she could seize on it to help cats, dogs, and other animals," says peta2 Director Marta Holmberg. "Young people are leading the animal rights charge, and Monica is a trailblazer they can look to for inspiration."
Monica's involvement at the animal shelter goes beyond collecting discount coupons to help buy food, toys, and other supplies for animals. She also volunteers at the facility every chance she gets and uses her knack for crafts to make candles and other items, which she donates to the shelter to use for fundraising.
Monica will receive a framed certificate and be added to peta2.com's "Everyday Heroes" feature.
The peta2 Street Team is a group of youth activists dedicated to helping animals through in-person events, online campaigns, and social media.
For more information, please visit peta2.com.