In 1997, a special G.R.I.N. family, Larry and Maria Zoul, lost a very precious member of their family; a beautiful and talented golden named Tara Marie. After Tara's passing on September 5, 1997 to honor her memory, they set up a special fund in Tara's name to help senior rescued goldens. It was and currently is funded by the Zouls and their family and friends. The fund remains active today as a special fund account with G.R.I.N. and is intended to help with routine care and prevention for Goldens who need help.  Although the fund has limited funds, it is always available to help a golden in need, even if only in a small way. 

WHO CAN APPLY TO THIS FUND FOR ASSISTANCE?

Owners of any G.R.I.N. dog in need of financial assistance can apply to this fund for help.  Owners of Senior goldens will be given first preference, but the fund has expanded to include any G.R.I.N. adopted dog with a unique situation.

HOW DOES THE FUND WORK?

Once you have been approved to receive assistance from the fund, the G.R.I.N. Treasurer will contact you with the amount you have been approved for.   We will pay your vet directly on your behalf up to the amount you were awarded.  We cannot pay you directly for reimbursement for expenses; we can only pay your vet on your behalf.

HOW DO I APPLY?

Please list the following information in an e-mail:  Your dog's name (G.R.I.N. dog name if you have changed it since adoption), G.R.I.N. tag number (if possible), adoption date, your name, address, contact phone number including best time to contact you if we have questions), the reason for your need for financial assistance, and what you are requesting the funds for such as office visit, heartworm prevention, medications, etc.  Please be specific in your request and if you have an estimated dollar amount from your vet, please include that in addition to your vet information including their phone number.  Send your completed e-mail to treasurer@grinrescue.org and mark the subject line "Tara Marie Fund Request". 

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET AN ANSWER?

Most requests are reviewed as soon as we receive them and you will normally have a response within one week. 

ARE THERE ANY RESTRICTIONS?

Yes.  This fund at this time is limited only to dogs who have been adopted through G.R.I.N. 

CAN I CONTRIBUTE TO THIS FUND?

Yes!  Although this fund is set up by the Zouls in memory of Tara Marie, it is a G.R.I.N. restricted account and anyone is welcome to donate to this fund.  Checks can be made payable to G.R.I.N. noting the Tara Marie Fund and all donations are tax exempt.