On August 28, 2022, five local cat rescues joined together for the Furrever Loved Vendors Market and Fundraiser at the Cornwall Square. This was the second event of its kind hosted at the mall, the first having taken place in February of this year.
The market was situated on the second floor of the Cornwall Square where the old Sears store used to be. In addition to 20+ local vendors, there were also adoptable cats and kittens present as well as a silent auction that took place from 11am to 1pm.
100% of the proceeds from vendor rental space and the silent auction were donated to participating rescues. Rescues in attendance were Calico House Cat Rescue, Pawportunity Cat Rescue, C & K 4 Legged Rescue, Furrball Cat Rescue, and Cattrap.
“Working with Cornwall Square has enabled Calico House Cat Rescue to keep our doors open longer than we ever would’ve alone,” Anna Carriere commented on a post on the Cornwall Square’s Facebook Page, “To simply say thank you would be an understatement, so please know you have saved lives by assisting rescues. Thank you so much for every ounce of support.”
Markets and traditional fundraisers aren’t the only way that local rescues are fighting to stay afloat. On June 20, 2022, Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue announced the launch of a Patreon account in the hopes that monthly donations will offset expenses such as cat food, litter, and vet bills. Patreon is a unique crowdfunding platform where members are encouraged to donate monthly in exchange for perks.
In this case, fans and supporters of the rescue can donate as little as $5 per month in exchange for exclusive updates including pictures and videos not seen elsewhere. Starting at $20 per month, donors can vote for the names of foster cats and kittens that come into care. As of September 1, 2020, the Tiny but Mighty Patreon has 140 patrons – just ten shy of their 150-patron goal.
Despite the many passionate individuals and rescues in our community doing everything they can to fight for the wellbeing of cats and kittens in Cornwall, the problem continues. One of the best ways citizens can help is by making sure their cats are spayed/neutered as soon as possible.
Applications are still open for the upcoming Subsidized Spay Neuter Program taking place in October.
