The Surface Creek Animal Shelter hosted its third annual parking lot sale at The Shelter Shoppe. Through collaborative community efforts and several months of event planning, they successfully raised over $18,500, including sponsorships and event proceeds. “This achievement represents a significant step forward in our efforts to support and sustain our full-service shelter," stated Chrystal Godfrey, Manager of The Shelter Shoppe and Events Coordinator for the organization.

 

Members of the Cedaredge FFA made important contributions to this event and provided valuable support in preparing for the sale. A highlight of the day was when the Shelter's expert dog walkers, Sandy Dudley and Scott Thomassen, stopped to socialize some of the dogs available for adoption. Adonis, Tom Ray, Griz, and Saint were thrilled to receive lots of attention.

 

Employees and volunteers from both the Shelter and the Shoppe, as well as local community members, participated. A special thank you to board member Bob Page for coordinating and collecting donations and securing sponsorships, and to The Shelter Shoppe Assistant Manager, Diana Keune, who dedicated many hours to preparing and pricing all donated merchandise for the sale. The store was also open during the sale, thanks to Brenda Richardson for preparing the store, and to the tireless efforts of the volunteers who worked inside as well.

 

Fundraisers like these are an absolute necessity. The Shelter receives minimal support from local government entities and must rely on fundraising and grants to support its operations. The cost of running the shelter has increased exponentially. With the rising costs of veterinary care, spaying and neutering, pet food, administrative costs, and other expenses, the adoption fees are nowhere near enough to cover the services required to rescue, care for, and rehome the cats and dogs of the Surface Creek area.

 

Although veterinarians offer discounted rates, none of their services are provided free of charge. There is always a fee and the shelter bears the costs. The rising number of veterinarians retiring and closing their practices is making it increasingly challenging to access affordable care. This is why community support through fundraising events is crucial for success.