Every year, Mardi Gras is celebrated throughout the city of New Orleans, and all across the country, with masks, beads, parades and king cakes.

Selma’s Purrrfect Pals will hold its own “Mardi Paws” celebration with New Orleans cuisine and a fundraiser to help shelter cats.

On Tuesday, March 5, residents of Selma can stop by Blue Jean Church at lunch, noon-2 p.m., or dinner, 4-6 p.m., to purchase a tasty meal and help provide care to sheltered cats.

“I wanted to create a fundraiser to provide something good and do something good. It’s a win-win,” said Shannon Lynch, Director of Purrrfect Pals.

The $10 meal includes either chicken and sausage gumbo or red beans and rice served with Cajun cornbread and a creole brownie.

All of the proceeds collected from the meals ensure that the shelter cats are spayed and neutered, kept up to date on shots and microchipped.

“All the money goes toward keeping the cats healthy and happy,” said Lynch. “We are making sure cats are friendly and ready to be adopted.”

Lynch also encourages those interested in adopting a cat to visit the free-roam room, where visitors can interact with cats.

“Bring your children and just sit with them,” said Lynch, “The cat room is a happy place.”

For more information about adoption and tickets for Mardi Paws, visit the Purrrfect Pals Facebook page at www.facebook.com/purrrfectpals or call 334-327-8414.