New Bedford's pet owners will be getting a helping hand, thanks to some license plates.

The Coalition for Animals of New Bedford says they have been awarded a $16,000 grant from the Massachusetts Coalition for Animals.

The coalition awards grants from funds collected from the sale of "I'm Animal Friendly" license plates, and those funds will be used to help low-income area residents spay or neuter their pets at a low cost.

“This grant is a huge benefit to the community,” said Manny Maciel, Animal Control Officer of New Bedford, "in this economy it is especially helpful to pet owners who cannot afford to have their animals fixed.”

Some monies will also be distributed to organizations including Animal Advocates, C.A.R.E., Habitat for Cats and Pet Partners , local non-profit organizations, who offer low-cost spaying and neutering of stray and feral cats.

Maciel is also encouraging residents to request the “I'm Animal Friendly” license plates as the purchase of these plates funds the grant for the low-cost spaying/neutering program.

The purchase of the plates is considered a tax-deductible donation and plates can be ordered here.

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