DEBERT, N.S.
A love of animals has inspired one Debert teen to come up with a novel business idea.
In February, Jaeden MacNeil set up JARC- Jae’s Animal Rescue Clothing, with 10 per cent of the money raised going to animal welfare organizations.
“I’ve always loved animals, and it’s sad to see organizations that are trying to make a difference struggling to keep up,” said the 17-year-old. “They get so little help.
“I’m not making a lot of money, but if a lot of people help a little, it makes a big difference.”
She and her mother came up with the idea of selling clothing, and she came up with a name and the porcupine design, which she has Fundy Textiles add to clothing, caps and bags.
“Porcupines are pretty cute, and people seem to like the design,” she said. “I thought of using it because the first organization I helped raise money for was the Cobequid Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, and they’d posted pictures of porcupines.
“Skunks are probably my favourite wild animal.”
MacNeil had the chance to see some of the animals in care when she delivered the donation, and now she’s raising funds for Hope for Wildlife. She has some other groups on her list for the future, including ElderDog and Wayward Cats.
“Sales are a little slow now, because there aren’t many events to sell at during the summer, but I’ll be going to different events later in the year,” she said.
“The better the business is, the more I can donate to these centres, and it feels good to help them.”
Jae’s Animal Rescue Clothing can be seen on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/JARC-Clothing-Company-344540239380354/ and can be ordered by sending a message.
