South Side Middle School store goes the extra mile

Facilitated by Purple Hearts Pups founder Lisa Siano, students at South Side Middle School were able to meet and learn about the experiences of two veterans – John Devine, a disabled vet who served as a Marine in the Vietnam War and Doug Perinchief, who had several tours in Iraq. Three puppy walkers with their dogs also provided information about what it takes to raise these special dogs who serve as companions and helpers to disabled vets.

Kathy Jaffa, who runs the South Side Middle School store and her student “employees” sold Purple Heart balloons at the store, raising $135 for the organization. Even before the fundraising efforts kicked off, Jaffa met with her group and went the extra mile to raise money to present to Siano.

Purple Heart Pups was established to help disabled veterans make the transition from serving as a soldier to civilian life. This organization also helps to raise funds to benefit America’s Vet Dogs and the National Amputee Foundation. Each of these groups provide the service dogs and mentoring assistance much needed by our veterans.