Dear ARK Pet Rescue Supporters,
It is with heavy hearts that we address you today with news that we never anticipated having to share. After years of dedicated service to our beloved animal companions, ARK Pet Rescue is facing the grim reality of potential closure.
Since our inception, our mission has been crystal clear: to provide shelter, care, and love to animals in need, and providing a space in our community for everyone to enjoy. With your unwavering support, we've been able to rescue countless animals, nurse them back to health, and match them with loving families. Together, we've witnessed heartwarming transformations and celebrated countless success stories, animal and human.
However, despite our best efforts and the tireless dedication of our staff and volunteers, we find ourselves at a crossroads. Over the past months, the number of adoptions has dwindled, while the expenses associated with caring for our animals have soared. The harsh reality is that without a significant increase in adoptions or financial support, we may be forced to close our doors indefinitely.
Some numbers for you to see:
January 1st to May 16th 2023: 278 Adoptions
January 1st to May 16th 2024: 197 Adoptions
An 81 adoption deficit might not seem like a lot, but that could be an upward of $56,000 that we are now missing from our annual budget that we were not prepared for. Every year our goal has been to increase adoptions, and that is what we were hoping to do this year.
Since becoming a 501c3 last april we were hoping that our donor base would increase and stand in the gap of adoptions. But the reality is, we get $650/Month in reoccuring donor support. We are so grateful for those individuals who stand next to us each month to support the rescue, but the reality is that $650 is less then 5% of our monthly expenses.
We also understand we cannot put all that pressure on you. We are doing our part and applying for grants. We've applied for over 20 this year and haven't recieved any at this point. Just recieving one of these grants would drastically change out circumstances. We haven't stopped applying, please pray we get positive news soon.
We understand that this news may come as a shock and a disappointment to all of you who have stood by us through thick and thin. We share in your sadness and frustration. But now more than ever, we need your help to keep our mission alive.
Here's how you can make a difference:
1. Adopt, Don't Shop: If you've been considering adding a furry friend to your family, we urge you to adopt from Ark Pet Rescue. Our animals are loving, loyal, and eagerly awaiting their forever homes. By adopting from us, you're not just saving one life — you're opening up space for another animal in need.
2. Spread the Word: Share our message far and wide. Let your friends, family, and social networks know about our situation and encourage them to adopt or donate if they're able. Every share, like, and retweet helps us reach more potential adopters and supporters.
3. Donate: If adoption isn't feasible for you right now, consider making a donation to ARK Pet Rescue. Every dollar counts and will go directly towards covering the costs of food, shelter, veterinary care, and other essential expenses for our animals. One thing that makes ARK a special place to donate, is we have no debt. All donations go directly to the animals in our care. If you visit, you can see EXACTLY who you are caring for. And that really is unheard of for a private, non-government funded animal rescue.
4. Advocate for Change: Advocate for policies and initiatives that support animal welfare and promote responsible pet ownership in your community. Together, we can work towards a future where every animal has a safe and loving home.
5. Pray: We haven't been shy about our faith as an organization. The good Lord has provided for us in so many ways. Our story has His goodness and faithfullness written all over it. If you are unable to give financially, we know prayer is powerful. Please pray for us as we navigate these next few weeks as it might be all we have left.
The road ahead may be challenging, but we refuse to give up hope. With your continued support and solidarity, we believe that we can overcome this obstacle and continue our lifesaving work for years to come.
Thank you for standing by us in our time of need. Together, we can ensure that the animals who rely on us never lose hope. If you are able to donate we have started a fundraiser which you can contribute to here:
Warmest regards,
Daria Veenstra
Executive Director
ARK Pet Rescue
Pictured: Sweet Mama and her baby currently in our care
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