Motivated by the recent seizure of over 70 cats in Lambton County, a Grade 12 student has mobilized her peers to raise funds through holiday art.
When news broke that over 70 Siamese cats were discovered in a Lambton County home, St. Patrick’s High School student Leila Barlow felt a personal pull to help. Having grown up with Siamese cats herself, the Grade 12 student knew she could not sit by while the local rescue system faced an overwhelming crisis.
Barlow channeled that impulse into a creative fundraising campaign through her Leadership and Management class. She mobilized her peers to create holiday-themed artwork, transforming student talent into tangible support for the animals.
The project features unique designs by student artists. Ava Beckingham illustrated a cat in a festive hat, while Maria Christou contributed designs of a penguin and a dog. Fiona Ferencsik created a black watercolour cat, and Kaitlyn Murray designed a pink cat for the series.
The initiative quickly became a community effort. Haines' Printing donated the cost of producing 250 digitally printed cards, ensuring that all proceeds raised go directly to Lambton Cat Rescue.
The funds come at a critical time. The rescue was alerted by a concerned resident about the situation and has been working to feed, transport, and provide medical care to the animals found living inside the home. They are currently seeking donations of food, litter, and toys.
The cards are available now in packs of five for $7.00. Residents can purchase them at the Sarnia Animal Hospital located at 1317 Exmouth Street.
Sales at the hospital will continue until December 23. Purchasers are asked to bring exact cash, as the clinic has limited change available for these transactions.
