Brockville family fundraiser helps 8-year-old with severe autism get service dog

In support of 8-year-old Declan

A Brockville mother is celebrating a successful fundraiser to help her 8-year-old son Declan, who has severe autism, get a service dog.

Allie DeDekker started a raffle fundraiser in September to raise money for Kingston 4 Paws Service Dogs, an organization that matches children with life-saving service dogs.

Declan is non-verbal and communicates using single words or an iPad. Safety has been a concern, as he has a history of running into dangerous situations.

The fundraiser offered raffle tickets for prizes including Ottawa Senators tickets, YETI products, and gift baskets. 

She explains just some of the ways a service dog can assist someone like Declan.

DeDekker highlighted the amount raised and explained where the funds raised will go.

In order to secure a service dog, Allie explained that you have to raise money for a local organization, in this case it was K4Paws in Kingston. 

Someone raised money in order for Declan to have a service dog, so DeDekker said it was their turn to pay it forward.

She said other locals have even come up to her and expressed how her journey has helped them feel better about their own which she says is very rewarding. 

She explained how much it means to have raised funds to support someone else’s journey.

DeDekker encourages everyone to support Kingston K4Paws if they can.

The raffle draw took place on October 30, with winners announced for all three prize baskets. 

Community support has been vital in giving Declan the safety, freedom, and companionship he deserves.

Learn more about Kingston K4Paws through this link: K4Paws - Kingston Service Dogs

Story by Evan Gibb