Carrie Zigman, secretary for the ISD union group, asked students to tell why they would like to see donations made to the shelter. Their responses were clear and heartfelt.

Some examples:

— “The shelter needs food and money for the animals.”

— “Other girls and boys might want to go and adopt a pet.”

Members of the Michigan Education Association from the Dickinson-Iron ISD include from left, back, Connie Smith, Sue Mielcarek, Carrie Zigman, Sarah Marshall, Lily Anderson, Sara Pericolosi, Amy Bracket, Jill Perpich, Paul Johnson and Clem Kawetschanky; front, Theresa Hruska, Rebecca Frates, Carol D’Alberto and Susan Sturm.

— “I don’t have any friends but my dog.”

— “My dog is the most important thing in my life.”

— “I cuddle with my cat.”

— “I tell my worries to my dog.”

— “My cat loves me no matter what.”

— “My dog is always happy to see me.”

— “I play games with my cat and we have fun.”

— “Some kids don’t have much money and they need the shelter to help them find a pet.”

Union members donated items including pet food, cat litter, toys, cleaning supplies, blankets and money.