She sews bandanas for shelter animals!

At just 10 years old, Malia Martinez turned her passion for sewing into a business that has raised thousands of dollars for animal rescues and helped dogs and cats find forever homes!

- Diane Nichols

On a bright Saturday afternoon, 9-year-old Malia Martinez wandered through a children's craft fair near her home in southeastern Massachusetts. She admired the handmade jewelry and scarves, but what really caught her eye were the families with happy pups trotting alongside them.

“Look at all the cute dogs,” she whispered to her mom, Crystal. Suddenly, an idea sparked. “What if I start my own business?” Malia asked. “I could sew bandanas for pets and give the money to shelters.”

Sewing had been a passion of Malia’s since her grandmother gave her a gift certificate for lessons one Christmas. By 10, she was making pajama pants and baby blankets for her family. Crystal smiled. “That’s a wonderful idea.”