Delray's Freeman seeking to help two local charities

Kelli Freeman, right with CoCo, her therapy dog and a patient. Freeman and CoCo help about 200 patients a week by volunteering at five facilities in Palm Beach and Broward counties.

DELRAY BEACH — Delray’s Kelli Freeman is one of five finalists for this month’s Fueling Good contest sponsored by Citgo, and she's hoping to use the competition to help two local charities.

The prize for the winner: a $2,500 Citgo gas card, which Freeman will donate to Habitat for Humanity of South Palm Beach County and NE Focal Point Senior Center in Deerfield Beach if she’s selected.

The contest is intended to recognize and encourage people who are doing good deeds in their communities. The winner will be selected by an online vote conducted on the Fueling Good web site. Voting continues through August 15, and you can vote every day.

Freeman works with CoCo, a trained, licensed and insured Therapy Dog through Therapy Dogs International.  CoCo and Freeman visit 5 facilities each week:  Pinecrest Rehabilitation Center, LakeView Care Center, Delray Medical Center, NE Focal Point and the Lourdes Noreen McKeen Residence and Nursing Home in West Palm Beach and see about 200 patients/clients each week.

“While we did not set out to work specifically with the elderly, that's the way it has unfolded for me and CoCo, and the seniors simply love him,” Freeman says. “They kiss, pet and play with him as he gives kisses, shows his tricks and just eats up their attention.

“Many of these facilities do not allow their own pets to visit, so CoCo allows them to enjoy a dog and the unconditional love that they may be missing.  The seniors also just love the attention that CoCo and I give them.”

Freeman says medical experts have documented that therapy dogs can lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety, help encourage motor skills, and provide stress relief for everyone — including family members, staff, etc.

“It's been truly amazing to watch CoCo in action with these folks!” Freeman says.

Voting for Freeman and CoCo will help two local charities: Habitat for Humanity of South Palm Beach County and the NE Focal Point Senior Center in Deerfield Beach.