CPSO helps the homeless and their pets

While many of us enjoy a warm fireplace or centralized heat in our own homes, there are those less fortunate seeking refuge in homeless shelters. Folks who would otherwise be braving the frigid weather throughout the holiday season.

They are top of mind for members of the Caddo Parish Sheriff's Office Operations Support Division and Corrections Division's Mental Health Department. In the spirit of giving, these CPSO employees came together and donated toiletries, clothes, dog food, and other necessities to the Holy Cross Hope House and Nova's Heart to help the homeless and their furry friends. Beyond providing food and clothing to the homeless, Hope House also helps its clients to sign up for government assistance.

"We do many things here for our friends," Hope House Executive Director Donna Earnest said. "Anything that they need to better their lives."

Nova's Heart provides food, clothing and services for the pets of the homeless and people going through a financial crisis. Lorraine Guerrero said Nova's Heart started after they learned many homeless people split the little food they had with their animal companions. "We didn't realize that they were going without to provide for their pets," she explained. "There's always a need. It doesn't end at Christmas," Deputy Rick Hadwin said.

For more on how you can help or if you know someone in need of services, contact Donna Earnest at Hope House either through their Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/HopeHouseShreveport/ ) or by giving them a call at ( 318)220-7650. For more information on Nova's Heart visit https://www.facebook.com/pg/novasheartsb/about/?ref=page_internal.