Children learn about gifts worth giving Published Jan. 9, 2008 By Airman Shen-Chia Chu 436th AW Public Affairs DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. -- Kindergartners from the Major George Welch Elementary School at Dover Air Force Base recently learned that it is better to give than to receive as they donated toys and food to the Kent County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. The Kent County SPCA was started in the 1950's by a group of women concerned about animal welfare. The non-profit organization contracts with the state to conduct animal control and rescue for Kent County and surrounding counties. "There are many drives for food banks and Toys for Tots, but not many think to donate to this one," said Mrs. Corey Mears, kindergarten teacher at Welch Elementary. As an animal lover, Mrs. Mears, along with her grandchildren, has always donated items to the Kent County SPCA to help out unfortunate animals. "I've organized this event with another teacher for 12 years at the school," she said. "I have seven animals total - dogs, cats, rabbits and horses. They're like my own kids in the family, they're a part of me." Mrs. Mears said that somebody has to take care of the animals and according to the kindergarten teachers, more than half of their kindergartners were happy to donate because they also have pets in their homes. Some children donated what they would give to their pets - favorite snacks and toys. Kindergartner Michele Meyer, explained why she gave. "My dog, Sunny, loves eating dog treats, that's why I brought them, so the other dogs can eat them too," said the kindergartner. This wasn't only a 'treat' for the animals, but for the kids as well. "The children enjoyed giving to the unfortunate animals - learning about the spirit of giving to others," said Mrs. Mears. For more information on how to donate or help, visit http://www.kentcountyspca.com.