Pounds of compassion Birthday benefiting others
By Patricia AlbrechtWhile many children look forward to birthdays and the presents they receive, one Tusky Valley fifth-grader anticipates gifts each year that she can give away.
Missy Snyder celebrated her 10th birthday on Sept. 26, with a party at The Skate Place in New Philadelphia.
In place of birthday presents for herself, she asked everyone who attended to bring items for the Tuscarawas County Humane Society.
“I’ve read a lot about neglected animals,” said Snyder, “and seen them on the news. I really wanted to help them out somehow.”
On Oct. 21, Missy and her parents, Charlie and Stephanie Snyder, pulled up in front of the Tuscarawas County Humane Society with their van loaded with more than 400 pounds of items for the shelter.
The humane society, located at 6895 Dover-Zoar Road, just outside of Dover, opened August 10, and a ribbon cutting ceremony was held Oct. 4. Shelter director Shelly Affolter, assistant shelter director Lindsey Lewis and worker Rose Love welcomed the donation of cat and dog food, treats, toys, food bowls, collars, shampoo, and other items.
This is not the first time Missy Snyder has thought about others before herself. Last year, she collected cans of food for the Salvation Army at her birthday party.
One of six children, Missy is an honor roll student and Tae Kwon Do gold medal winner.
She competed in the nationals in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., taking fourth place.
“She is such a good kid,” said mom, Stephanie Snyder. “She loves animals, and I think she would build a wildlife preserve if she could.”
“We have a dog at home,” said Missy, “Bandit, who we got at the pound. He’s a four-year-old Heinz-57.”
In addition to hoping to volunteer at the Tuscarawas County Humane Society, Missy Snyder is also thinking about her next charitable event.
“I’m not sure what it will be yet,” said Missy, “but I know I want to do something like this next year.”