Unemployed UAE resident goes extra mile to feed street cats daily

A Filipino resident in Abu Dhabi has been unemployed for nearly a year, but that doesn't stop him from helping his furry feline friends that run stray around the Capital.
Jonathan Sibol, 30, used to spend more than Dh1,000 out of his own pocket per month when he began feeding stray cats in 2015; however, he lost his job last year. His friends and other residents came to his rescue, offering help so he could continue his work in animal welfare.
His mission is to show the community that animals shouldn't be forgotten no matter how tough circumstances get.
He feeds more than 40 felines daily in Abu Dhabi, mainly around Al Falah and near Medeor Hospital. Before losing his job, he was feeding many more.
"In 2015, I started buying cat food, milk, water and other things they needed with my own money, but sadly I've been jobless for the past eight months. Despite this, I am very thankful that some of my friends are helping me out - they donate cat food so I can keep feeding the cats every day," said Sibol, who used to work in sales.
"I want to show people that having financial problems is not an excuse not to help others, including animals. When I look into the eyes of the cats, I do not see an animal, I see a living being. I see a friend and a soul.
"I believe all living things here are equal and we all deserve to live. Feeding them is an honour for me. I feel happy when I do."
This month, Sibol will be receiving a donation of 50kgs of cat food.
He goes out every day - morning and evening - to distribute the food and pour fresh water for the stray cats.
"Right now, I have plenty of time in my hands, so I spend it in different areas, distributing food. There are many strays that are starving and they need our help. I've been keeping and saving the donations I receive in my house, and I go out on my own to feed the cats. Sometimes, a few of my friends come with me," Sibol said.
sarwat@khaleejtimes.com