How to help the animal shelter that 'lost everything' during NJ flooding
The organization currently has no way to accept physical donations but is accepting monetary donations. Rescues able to assist with animals are also greatly appreciated.
The 92-year-old shelter at 75 Rock Ave. 'lost everything,' not expecting the entire shelter to be underwater.
Hope 4 Paws is run by a small staff and a volunteer-based board of trustees and serves Berkeley Heights, Springfield, North Plainfield, South Plainfield, Scotch Plains and Bound Brook.
Director Josh Reyes, Shelter Manager Allison Scarinci, a board member and a volunteer were able to swim through the debris to get inside and check on the animals. Despite the chaos, all animals were moved to higher ground and are safe.
"They were sitting in darkness with water quickly filling their cages, many were already chest deep in the flood," according to a Facebook post. "We have absolutely nothing − no food, bedding, litter, or supplies of any kind. What we do have are our animals and for that we are eternally grateful."
The shelter said the main focus right now is on the welfare of the animals and trying to relocate as many as possible.
Hope4Paws was already working on recovering from the July 4 storm which flooded the area. All animals were safe, but the property suffered damages including the loss of the dog yard.
As they are still assessing the damage and "just beginning the long road to recovery," Hope4Paws is asking those to hold off bringing anything to the shelter for now.
"We will have our hands full during this recovery," said the Facebook post. "We truly appreciate your patience and support."
email: cmakin@gannettnj.com
Cheryl Makin is an award-winning feature, news and education reporter for MyCentralJersey.com, part of the USA Today Network. Contact: Cmakin@gannettnj.com or @CherylMakin. To get unlimited access, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.
This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: How to help the NJ animal shelter that 'lost everything' during flood
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