The P.A.W.S. of Purpose program is a New York City Department of Correction rehabilitation initiative on Rikers Island. Inmates gain life skills such as responsibility, patience, empathy, and emotional resilience while preparing rescue dogs for adoption, fostering a sense of purpose and compassion. Meanwhile, the dogs receive essential training and socialization to help them find loving homes.

 

Pillows for Paws has partnered with the P.A.W.S. of Purpose program to support this mission. Together, they host the "Fetch Some Love: DIY Dog Toys and Beds for Shelter Paws" sessions, where young men at Rikers create beds and tug toys for shelter dogs at the Animal Care Centers of NYC. These sessions provide the dogs with comfort and enrichment while giving participants a positive, skill-building activity that benefits both the community and themselves.

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This partnership exemplifies the power of second chances, demonstrating how collaboration can create meaningful impact for both humans and animals.