How ‘Hawk Tuah’ Haliey Welch is Using Her Platform to Advocate for Animal Shelters with Paws Across America

Haliey Welch, better known as the "Hawk Tuah Girl," has transformed her viral internet fame into a force for good with her animal welfare initiative, Paws Across America. What started as a meme that captivated millions has evolved into a movement to support animal shelters and rescue organizations across the country. Through her foundation, Welch is using her platform to bring attention, donations, and much-needed help to animals in need.

Welch first entered the public eye through a viral video. After experiencing a significant boost in popularity, she decided to give back, specifically to animals that have always played a key role in her life.

In her own words, Welch explained, “Growing up, the one constant in my life was my pets and they helped me get through so much By starting Paws Across America, my newfound financial blessings will be shared with the animals that need it most. So the first place I went was my hometown in Tennessee.”

By launching this initiative, she’s turning her personal connection to animals into a tangible mission that helps shelters across the U.S. 

The aim of Paws Across America is simple: raise awareness and money for animal shelters and rescues across the country. Welch's foundation collects donations that are distributed to shelters in need, helping provide food, medical care, and essential supplies. All donations to the fund are tax-deductible and go directly to animal welfare nonprofits. Her foundation is making a difference, but Welch’s outreach doesn’t stop there—she also volunteers her time and promotes the work of shelters through her social media channels​

In a recent tour stop in the Phoenix area, Welch visited local shelters, bringing attention to the urgent needs of rescue organizations. By making personal appearances and sharing her visits with her followers, Welch amplifies the voices of those working on the ground in animal rescue​

Welch’s savvy use of social media is a big part of her foundation’s success. With a massive following, she’s able to leverage her viral fame to draw attention to animal welfare causes. Her fans, who initially connected with her for her fun, lighthearted content, are now invited to support a meaningful cause. Welch has also launched a podcast called Talk Tuah, where she discusses everything from her personal experiences to her philanthropic efforts​

The foundation has already supported multiple shelters and raised considerable funds for animals in need. Welch's collaboration with the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee ensures that donations are managed effectively and distributed to organizations that can make the most impact​.

Welch’s commitment to animal welfare shows that viral fame doesn’t have to be fleeting. By turning her popularity into a vehicle for positive change, she’s creating a lasting legacy that benefits animals all across the U.S. Her foundation, Paws Across America, continues to grow, and with each new shelter she partners with, more animals find the care and support they need.

For those who want to get involved, Paws Across America offers several ways to contribute, from donating to local shelters to spreading awareness. You can find out more about the foundation on its official website here​.