ELIJA — known as Empowering Long Island’s Journey through Autism — is launching Woof Wednesday at its new ELIJA Farm marketplace. Every Wednesday, the marketplace will feature handcrafted dog biscuits made at the ELIJA Farm in Huntington Station. Sales from these biscuits will support autism services and aid for people experiencing homelessness in Nassau and Suffolk counties. In collaboration with the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless, this initiative highlights the impact of pets on our lives and serves our communities.
The initiative, created by Katie Padgett, 21, and Jason Harris, 25, both Long Island residents, was enthusiastically adopted by Deb Thivierge, ELIJA’s CEO and executive director, with support from ELIJA Farm’s baker, Kelly Saphire.
The treats, made with natural ingredients such as oats, peanut butter and pumpkin puree, cost $10 per bag of 30. Out of the proceeds, 50% will go to ELIJA Farm, and the other 50% will be donated to Long Island Coalition for the Homeless. Treats can be purchased at the ELIJA Farm marketplace at 43 Foxhurst Road, South Huntington, while supplies last, or preordered through the ELIJA Farm website. Orders for pickup must be placed by Monday for the following Wednesday.
Padgett and Harris, who met about a year ago and share a passion for helping others, created Woof Wednesday to support their communities. Padgett said, “You won’t only be giving dogs delicious treats, you’ll also be funding educational opportunities for people on the autism spectrum and assisting those affected by homelessness. Every little bit counts.”
With support from Woof Wednesday, Long Island Coalition for the Homeless aims to expand its offerings through its “Boutique,” which provides clothing, essential items, nonperishable food, toiletries and housewares to individuals exiting homelessness or at risk. The coalition hopes to extend its outreach beyond the 6,000 individuals and families it currently serves annually.
“I love the idea that Katie and Jason came up with to further our commitment to making a meaningful difference in both human and canine lives,” Thivierge said. “We are excited to support our clients living with autism and help the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless through their Boutique initiative. This is just the beginning of a mutually beneficial relationship.”
Greta Guarton, executive director of the coalition, added, “I want to thank Katie, Jason, Deb and ELIJA Farm for this amazing opportunity. People with disabilities, including those with autism, are at greater risk of homelessness. Often, people who are homeless and have pets avoid shelters because animals are not permitted. This partnership draws attention to the issues impacting our diverse communities.”
For more information or to pre order, visit the ELIJA Farm website at www.elijafarm.org/events or email [email protected]. For more on the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless, visit www.addressthehomeless.org.
