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February 9, 2026

Martin’s Young Philanthropists Meet Therapy Dogs

Kindergartners at Martin Avenue Elementary School showed their generosity with a successful fundraiser for the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter. Their reward? A visit at school from two therapy dogs. 

Gelsy Freese brought 4-year-old Penny and 12-year-old Cooper to meet the youngsters on Jan. 27. Students from Melissa DeBlasio’s and Jennie Kuhn’s classes came together to meet the dogs and learn about the mission of the animal shelter. Ms. Freese talked about being responsible pet owners and showed them the proper way to pet a dog.  

The kindergartners spent weeks collecting donations for the shelter’s cats and dogs, including blankets, food, treats and toys. Ms. Freese picked up the donations, which will go towards caring for the animals in the shelter as they await adoption.  

A young boy pets a golden retriever in a colorful classroom setting.    A teacher interacts with two dogs in a classroom setting, with children observing.   Children and an adult interact with a golden retriever in a classroom setting.   Children gather around two dogs, petting them in a classroom setting.   Children and an adult interact with two dogs in a classroom setting.   A teacher and two dogs interact with children in a colorful classroom.   Children and an adult interact with a golden retriever in a classroom setting.