For the last several weeks, I’ve been transporting cats from the Café to and from foster and adoptive homes. As people have been required to stay home, many have decided that it’s the perfect time to foster or adopt a new pet.
Now, the Café is providing support for people who already have pets and who may be in personal or financial difficulty as a result of Covid-19. Below is a press release introducing the Café’s latest initiative, NYCFoster.org.
In partnership with Cat Castle and Brooklyn Fat Cats, our Cat Cafe has established the NYC Covid Pet Plan, an emergency foster network for New York City’s non-profit animal rescue organization to provide assistance for pet owners adversely affected by COVID-19.
At nycfoster.org, pet owners in NYC will have access to tools to help them create an advance plan for their pet should they become too ill to care for them. Pet owners will also be able to apply for temporary pet fostering should they become hospitalized or lose housing. Pet owners experiencing temporary economic distress can apply for limited assistance with pet food. Current service areas are in Brooklyn, Upper Manhattan and parts of the Bronx but may expand as other rescue groups join the coalition.
“This type of environment can put a tremendous strain on our neighbors and friends. We want to ensure that not only are humans cared for – but that contingency plans are enacted to ensure the wellbeing of our furry friends,” said Anne Levin, Executive Director of Brooklyn Cat Cafe and Founder of NYC COVID Pet Plan. “NYC COVID Pet Plan will provide much needed support to pet-owning families affected by COVID-19 and take some of the strain off overburdened city shelters. During this time of immense stress, we want to support our neighbors to our greatest ability.”
NYC COVID Pet Plan is seeking fosters, volunteers, and rescue partners. For those interested in participating in the coalition, or accessing resources provided, please visit nycfoster.org.
Photo: Cat Café alum Gwen happy in her new home
SOURCE: Brooklyn Heights Blog – Read entire story here.