One of Bishop Moore Catholic School students shared his experience of being a volunteer at Christian Service Center. As the son of a veterinarian, he understands the need for proper pet care.
Pets are Special
In a report with The Florida Catholic, the 17-year-old A.J. Bert said he enjoys working with people. He told the news outlet that he and his mother volunteer for organizations that help the homeless and pets.
The high school junior explained that the pets were like family for the homeless community and it was a harsh world out there, and they needed all the support they could get. A.J. told of the loyalty of these pets who stood by their owner's side.
He explained that the pets lifted a huge weight off their owners' shoulders.
Helping Homeless People
A.J. and his sister, Bella, help their mother, Dr. Jacki Bert, cater to the homeless at the shelter.
Dr. Bert said she had to think out of the box when volunteering once the pandemic struck. She realized that the homeless did not have access to essential pet care.
Dr. Bert pitched the idea of catering to the needs of the homeless community's pets to the Christian Service Center. They soon agreed to her proposal.
Turtle Named Tanya
She told the news outlet that patients started pouring in. The vet has attended to dogs, cats, and even a turtle named Tanya.
Dr. Bert said the turtle belonged to a woman in her 70s. She noted that the woman came along with her walker, which was all the possessions she had.
The vet remembered asking the woman if she would release the turtle. The old lady protested, saying she needed her pet. The doctor saw how much the woman loved Tanya.
Dr. Bert realized the importance of pets in their lives. She gave Tanya a checkup and gave her owner some turtle food to take home.
Meet Bellarina
The vet also met Bellarina, a 10-week-old Chihuahua-and-terrier mix. Her owner had a job but was homeless.
Her owner confided that someone had given her the pup as a gift. She tried taking her pet to the vet, but the fee cost $55. It was costly for her because she was still saving up for a living place.
She thanked the generosity of Dr. Bert, the Christian Service Center, and the Orlando Sentinel who sponsored the event.
Dr. Bert and her son vaccinated the pup and gave her a full checkup.
Volunteering is Family Affair
A.J. told the news outlet that his volunteerism went beyond the mandatory hours of the Catholic school.
His service for the community was a family affair. A.J. told the Florida Catholic that they once had a trip to Haiti when he was in the eighth grade.
They served the local community for two weeks.
He was thankful to Christian Service Center because of the people he met and said that it was a positive experience for him.
According to the Christian Service Center website, the nonprofit aims to end homelessness and poverty. The organization offers services such as healthcare, food, and clothing.
More from Crossmap: Parishioners, advocates join Mass for Life to show support in pro-life movement
