The P.A.T.C.H. Challenge
Dogs have a way of making us feel good. Little Patch fulfilled this role and then some.
Patch was adopted by local businessman and fellow dog-lover, Frank Apa. Patch’s sweet, outgoing and charismatic nature quickly won the hearts of Frank and his team at Lexus of Oakville. Patch became the official ambassador of the dealership lifting people’s spirits and bringing smiles to everyone he met.
After Patch passed away in 2001, the PATCH (People and Animals Together Creating Harmony) Program was created in partnership with OMHS to honor his legacy of kindness. This program teaches children and youth about animals, fostering a community built on care, compassion, and the positive power of kindness.
Since 2001, The PATCH Challenge has raised funds through a portion of every car sold at Lexus of Oakville, directly benefiting OMHS.
The PATCH Challenge celebrated its 25th anniversary in June 2025. To mark this milestone, Lexus of Oakville set a goal to raise $25,000 in support of education, awareness, and animal care.
This brings the total amount raised over the past 25 years to more than $358,000!
Each year the OMHS and Lexus of Oakville reward a child with the Patch Challenge Award for their demonstration of kindness in our community in honour of Patch.
It is a special tribute to the special black and white dog who brought out these qualities in everyone he encountered. Congratulations to the 2025 Patch Challenge Award winners Ananya and Atreya (pictured below)!
Pictured are Mike Mahaffy of Lexus of Oakville; Frank Apa, retired owner of Lexus of Oakville; Ananya and Atreya; and OMHS Executive Director Jeff Vallentin
Oakville & Milton Humane Society is very grateful for the support from Frank Apa and Lexus of Oakville.
You can help kids in our communities learn more about kindness to animals by making a donation to the Patch initiative or nominating a child for the Patch Challenge award at any time throughout the year.