EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Even though Margaret "Peggy" Clavin only resided at the Loft at Linn in East Providence for six months before passing away, she left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Clavin, who suffered from dementia, cherished her animatronic pet cat named "Kitty." " It was her everything. She brought it with her everywhere," her daughter Colleen McMichael told 12 News. "She was always sitting with it and petting it." That's why McMichael and her family decided to donate 40 robotic companion cats to elderly residents at the same assisted living facility where Clavin spent her final months. "Her cat brought her so much joy, and we just wanted to spread that joy," McMichael said. The "Joy for All Companion Pets" were gifted to residents at the assisted living facility Wednesday. Those residents spent the afternoon coming up with names, picking out collars and filling out adoption certificates for their new companions. Jamie Sanford, administrator of the Loft at Linn, told 12 News the consistent companionship that these robotic cats provide is vital for their residents. "As we age, it is not uncommon for our socialization to be reduced, and it can sometimes be challenging for someone to take responsibility for a pet," Sanford explained. "This is such an amazing alternative for those individuals." Sanford said Clavin's animatronic cat provided her with "so much comfort" as she coped with her cognitive decline. "It really brought back a sense of purpose in her life," she said. Sanford hopes the residents who received the donated cats will also regain that same sense of purpose. Clavin's family bought the robotic cats using money raised in lieu of flowers following her passing. "My mother loved living here and loved all the residents," McMichael said. "We're just so happy to give back." Download the WPRI 12 and Pinpoint Weather 12 apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch 12 News Now on WPRI.com or with the new 12+ smart TV app. Follow us on social media:                     Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW ...read more read less