Homeless animals need the attention and generosity of local residents even before they get a good home.

James Brady, a senior at Picayune High School, has decided to collect various supplies to be used by the local SPCA for his senior project.

Some acceptable supplies include paper towels, bleach, dog food, cat food, cat litter and newspapers.

“They can use newspapers, that’s one of the biggest things they need,” Brady said.

Brady’s love for animals began at a young age when he was raised with rottweilers. One day one of those dogs died due to heart worm infection, he said.

“Ever since then I’ve been wanting to help animals,” Brady said.

Donated items will be accepted at Cales Food Supply, Paul Bounds and the SPCA shelter on Palestine Road. Collection will be from Monday April 2 to Saturday April 7 during operating hours of those businesses, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. for the SPCA on the same days, Brady said.

Brady said his only goal is to collect as many of those items as possible. Those items will be especially useful this time of year since new litters could be on the way.

“This is spring time, the animals get spring fever,” said Brady’s mentor, Dawn Bechtel.

Monetary donations will be accepted at the SPCA. If anyone has questions concerning the collection of supplies they can reach Brady at 601-569-1661.

Bechtel said it is important to mentor senior students in the community with their senior projects.

“We want to teach our young people to become more civic minded and give back to the community where they were brought up,” Bechtel said.