Woman determined to keep pet pantry going after the loss of her husband to COVID-19

Paw It Forward Pet Pantry in Valley Stream has been operating for around three years. It is the passion project of the couple who started it.

News 12 Staff

Apr 24, 2020, 6:38 PM

Updated 1,688 days ago

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A Long Island resident who lost her hero husband to the coronavirus is now helping pet owners who fall on hard times.
Paw It Forward Pet Pantry in Valley Stream has been operating for around three years. It is the passion project of the couple who started it.
Tragically, Robert Nathan passed away at 51 from complications related to COVID-19, leaving his widow Danielle to run the organization on her own.
The pantry is run out of their home and provides pet food and supplies free of charge to rescue groups and people in need.
In addition to Robert, the group also lost hard-working volunteer Michael Field, who was an EMT and 9/11 first responder. He was remembered by the Valley Stream Fire Department in a solemn ceremony after he succumbed to the virus.
On top of everything that she has already had to deal with, Danielle says the economic downturn caused by the pandemic means donations have dried up, and more people have reached out to her for help.
Danielle says she will continue her hard work, while keeping the memory of her husband alive.
"Things change pretty quick. You're here one day, gone tomorrow. I really hope everyone takes care of their pets, their family," says Danielle Scala-Nathan. "And if anyone needs anything, we're here to help with supplies. And if anyone needs anything I just hope that we're here to keep it going."
The pantry is asking for donations of pet food, supplies or gift cards. They're also looking for volunteers.
Anyone who is interested in helping out send an email to happypawitforward@gmail.com.
PHOTOS: Your Coronavirus Heroes
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