Paws Providing Purpose
Community Service
Paws Providing Purpose believes that meaningful change begins with community involvement. Through volunteer opportunities, fundraising initiatives, and outreach programs, we work alongside compassionate individuals to support shelter animals and rescue organizations across Tennessee and beyond.
Service Impact
Stella Higdon founded the Little Free Pantry in her hometown of Bruceton, Tennessee, with the goal of providing essential supplies for both people and animals in need. Through this initiative, community members are able to access food, pet supplies, and other necessities during times of hardship. Higdon has also demonstrated a deep commitment to animal advocacy by dedicating over 800 volunteer hours to animal welfare events, rescue initiatives, and community service efforts. Through her leadership and dedication, she continues to promote compassion, encourage community involvement, and make a meaningful impact in the lives of both animals and the people who care for them.
Stella Higdon created her own children’s book series, Paws and Pages, inspired by her eleven cherished pets. Through this series, she highlights each pet’s unique personality and connects it to a positive character trait, teaching young readers valuable lessons about kindness, compassion, responsibility, and empathy. By sharing the stories of her beloved animals, Higdon encourages children to appreciate and care for animals while also developing strong moral values. Through this meaningful project, she has positively impacted the lives of over 1,000 children, inspiring a love for reading and a deeper respect for animals.
Stella Higdon enjoys hosting bake sales that bring the community together while supporting animals in need at local humane societies. She organizes these fundraisers through her own bakery, Cedar Street Sweets, which she founded in 2020. Through these events, Higdon not only raises funds but also encourages community members to come together in support of animal welfare. Families, friends, and local supporters gather at these bake sales to contribute to a meaningful cause, creating a strong sense of compassion and shared purpose within the community. Through these bakery fundraisers, Higdon has raised over $10,000, directly benefiting local shelters and helping provide food, medical care, and essential resources for animals in need.
"Serve one another humbly in love."
- Galatians 5:13