A Port Moody bakery is going to the dogs this Sunday, Sept. 8 to raise funds for the Pacific Assistance Dogs Society that provides support dogs to people with disabilities.
And the community is being asked to help out.
If Gabi and Jules Bakery can raise $20,000, which is the average cost associated with raising, feeding, training, and veterinary care required for a litter of PADS puppies, they get to name the puppies, too.
Bakery owners Lisa and Patrick Beecroft named their business after their two daughters, seven-year-old Gabi and 11-year-old Jules who has autism. In addition to being heavily involved in the local autism community, Lisa is also a member of the President’s Club, a B.C.-based organization that is committed to inclusive hiring practices.
“We have a number of people on the spectrum who are working with us here at the bakery and making pie deliveries,” says Lisa Beecroft. “Holding this fundraiser is another way that we want to give back to the autism community. And one day, we do hope to get a VIP dog for Juliana!”
With the fundraiser comes praise for the local merchants, who will be giving PADS a big boost.
“We’re so grateful for the support of Lisa and Patrick and small businesses like Gabi & Jules — without them (and others like them), our life-changing dogs wouldn’t exist. We’re so proud of our VIP program, and the incredible difference these dogs make in the lives of children living with autism and other disabilities,” says Laura Watamanuk, executive director of PADS.
Tickets to the event are $40 for adults and $20 for children and include a burger, drink, and a slice of Gabi & Jules famous pie. (Vegetarian options will be available.) There will also be a raffle ($25 per ticket or five for $100) that will include airplane tickets for two anywhere in North America, donated by the Beecrofts.
The event runs from 12 p.m. until 4 p.m. and festivities will include live music, face-painting, door-prizes, and up to 20 PADS pups for everyone to snuggle, pet, and play with.
Local Tri-City and Vancouver businesses The Little Butcher, Moody Ales, Phoenix Truck and Crane, YVR, Choices Markets, and Pallet Coffee are helping to sponsor the event.
Event and raffle tickets can be purchased at www.gabiandjules.com.
