Henry Daily Herald

In August, the non-profit Noah’s Ark Animal Rehabilitation Center and Children’s Care Homes issued a request for donations to many of its supporters.

The center solicited support to help offset its $12,000-per-month cost for animal feed, according to Diane Smith, assistant to the Noah’s Ark Founder and Director Jama Hedgecoth.

Smith said animals at Noah’s Ark annually consume about 375 tons of hay, 4,300 pounds of monkey biscuits, 18,000 pounds of big cat diet, 275,000 pounds of dry dog food, 176,000 pounds of sweet feed, and 3,000 pounds of parrot feed.

Noah’s Ark habitat volunteer, Rita Whitehouse, is inviting the public to take part in a “Learn to Coupon Like a Pro” class. Whitehouse, an avid couponer, is hosting the class in an effort to raise money for the organization.

“I have been volunteering at Noah’s Ark since February this year and believe that I found something that makes me feel like I want to feel,” said Whitehouse. “One of the best parts of being in the habitat is seeing how happy and excited the visitors of all ages are when they visit and how eager they are to learn about the animals. Noah’s Ark provides us all with a glorious experience in nature.

“I wanted to do something for Noah’s Ark because of all it has given me,” she continued. “Due to the current economic situation, I thought that people would be interested in learning how to save money, especially since the holidays are just around the corner. I decided to share my couponing skills with others by inviting them to a class and request that they donate $10 each to Noah’s Ark for their participation.”

The Couponing 101 class will be held from 10:30 a.m., until 11:30 a.m., Saturday in the Welcome Center at Noah’s Ark Animal Rehabilitation Center.

Participants may also tour the Noah’s Ark habitat, located at 712 Locust Grove-Griffin Road in Locust Grove. For directions, visit the Noah’s Ark web site at www.noahs-ark.org.

“This is the first time we’ve tried this,” Diane Smith said. “I think for one of our volunteers to do something like this is great.”

Space for the Couponing 101 class is limited. RSVP to CouponFriendsArk@yahoo.com. Visit the Noah’s Ark web site to learn more about the non-profit’s needs.

Smith said those interested in volunteering are asked to call (770) 957-0888. Donations may be mailed to: Noah’s Ark, 712 LG-Griffin Road, Locust Grove, Ga. 30248.