Since the start of his teaching career, Jeremy Wiebenga, a classroom teacher for students with autism, has been running Operation Santa Paws. Santa Paws is a fundraiser that collects resources for the local Harbor Humane Society. These funds are used to get the supplies necessary for pets in need. The motivation for starting this operation? His own dogs.

“I am a big dog guy,” said Wiebenga. “I thought about doing a donation drive for the shelter my class volunteered at. I did some research online and saw some Operation Santa Paws around the country. So I thought let’s do Operation Santa Paws, since people are in the spirit of giving this time of year.”

Additionally, Wiebenga believes that pets play a pivotal role in human life.

“Pets, whether it’s a cat, dog, fish, you name it, give unconditional love,”said Wiebenga. “In the sense of it doesn’t matter the day, the week, the time, you know your dogs or your pets will be there. Whether it’s a time of joy, a time of sadness, or whatever it is. But pets also teach us unconditional love.”

For those looking to donate, the donation table is located outside of room 3113. The process is simple and Wiebenga is happy to help curious donors.

“People can donate any time between now and the first of the year” said Wiebenga