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About

Our Mission

The Paw in Hand Project believes pets are a gift from God. We recognize the significance pets play in the lives of those we serve. We meet our clients where they are in their healing journey, returning choice to them by providing options for their pet while they seek their own safety. 

Family Dog

Our Vision

People in the Cincinnati Tri-State area are no longer separated from their pets by instability, but are empowered to change their circumstances through our service and the freedom that God provides.

Core Values

Stewardship - We recognize that everything on this earth truly belongs to God and we aim to be faithful with all that he has entrusted to us, utilizing the resources that God provides for the betterment of His creation so that we may help those who need service. “The Earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it, the world, and those who live in it.” (Psalm 24:1)

 

Dignity - We recognize that each person has been created in the image of God and deserves to be treated with respect, value, and love. “God created humankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them, male and female he created them.” (Genesis 1:27)

 

Compassion - We are compassionate and strive to suspend all judgment and meet each person where they are, respecting the courage that it takes to ask for help, and responding with empathy and understanding.  “Finally, all of you be harmonious, sympathetic, affectionate, compassionate, and humble.” (1 Peter 3:8)

Hugging a Puppy

Why is this important?

Domestic violence and homelessness constitute a national crisis. A striking sixty-five percent of Americans consider their pets as integral family members. Yet, regrettably, most shelters do not welcome these pets, thus creating an additional hurdle for those seeking safety.

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Individuals who have endured homelessness, intimate partner violence, human trafficking, and substance use have undergone profound trauma. Their choices, dignity, and respect as human beings have often been stripped away from them. It is essential that, as they take the brave first step towards seeking help, they retain the choice to keep their pets. Our mission and services aim to restore this choice. We treat people with the dignity and respect they unequivocally deserve.

What we do

We proudly serve the Cincinnati Tri-State area, offering essential support to individuals facing homelessness, intimate partner violence, substance use, human trafficking, and mental health challenges. We recognize that pets are family, and our mission is to ensure that people in crisis can keep their beloved pets close.

Our work is carried out through two core programs: Paw Care and Paw Connect.

Paw Care Program: This program provides safe, temporary housing for pets by placing them with caring foster families and trusted boarding facilities. While owners focus on finding safety, we make sure their pets are looked after in secure, nurturing environments. Additionally, we cover any essential veterinary care pets may need, so they are healthy and ready for a joyful reunion.

Paw Connect Program: This program supports individuals as they transition from crisis to stability. We offer vital resources, stable connections, and a sense of community, helping trauma survivors rebuild their lives with the companionship and comfort of their pets.

Through these programs, we provide both immediate support and a sustainable path to recovery, making a real difference in the lives of people and their pets.

Where we are going

Demand for our services continues to grow as trauma survivors seek safe options for their beloved pets. We are thrilled to share our plans to establish a dedicated boarding kennel by November 2025. With this new facility, we will be able to reduce the time between receiving a referral and providing care, ensuring that pets are safe and families have peace of mind sooner. Through a matching grant from the Charles L. Shor Foundation, every dollar donated will be doubled, bringing us even closer to making this kennel a reality. This expansion will not only allow us to support more people but also create a sustainable model to ensure the longevity of our vital work. Together, we are building a future where no one has to choose between their safety and their pet’s well-being.

Kennels
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