Last Hope illuminates ‘Trees of Love’

There was a lot of love and a lot of lights at Last Hope Animal Rescue last month. The animal haven on Beltagh Avenue in Wantagh celebrated its annual “Trees of Love” lighting ceremony on Dec. 17.

The holiday event allowed community members and volunteers to remember lost pets and celebrate all the animals that have been adopted at Last Hope.

Before the two memorial trees were lit, residents were able to purchase ribbons for $10 each to hang. Gold ribbons honored living pets and red ribbons memorialized late pets. A third tree was also decorated in green ribbons, only, to represent the “countless discarded pets throughout the country euthanized each year at overcrowded shelters,” according to Last Hope. Supporters were also able to purchase the green ribbons as well.

All proceeds collected from the event were donated to various community outreach programs to benefit rescued dogs and cats at Last Hope. The money was also donated to the “Fix-A-Feral” program, which helps to spray and neuter rescued animals.

After the ceremony, participants enjoyed refreshments provided by the organization. For more information on Last hope, visit www.lasthopeanimalrescue.org.