A local nonprofit is getting a major boost to help more cats find homes in Okaloosa County.
Save Our Cats and Kittens (SOCKS) has received a $20,000 grant from PetSmart Charities to prepare more cats for adoption during National Adoption Week, set for March 27–28 in Destin.
The funding will allow SOCKS to pull cats from a volunteer-run shelter at Eglin Air Force Base, provide medical care, and make them adoption-ready before bringing them to a more accessible location for the public.
That includes spay and neuter services, vaccinations, and microchipping, removing barriers that often prevent animals from being adopted.
“These cats, sadly, had to be left behind because some of our military heroes are deployed to areas where it’s impossible to take their pets,” said Nancy Schimmer, executive director of SOCKS.
The adoption events will take place at the Destin PetSmart location along Emerald Coast Parkway, where additional cats will be available for prospective pet owners to meet.
Schimmer said the grant also eliminates another hurdle: base access.
“Because of this funding, would-be adopters won’t have the barrier of going through military security to meet these cats,” she said.
Millions of pets enter shelters across the U.S. each year, placing increasing strain on local organizations. The grant is part of a nationwide effort by PetSmart Charities to support shelters and increase adoption rates.
“Our animal welfare partners in local communities are determined to keep pace with the need, and deserve support,” said Aimee Gilbreath, president of PetSmart Charities.
During National Adoption Week, PetSmart stores across the country host adoptable animals, giving potential pet owners a chance to meet animals in person and learn about care, supplies, and services.
Locally, SOCKS regularly houses cats at the Destin store, but organizers say this weekend’s event will feature a larger number of animals ready for homes.
The nonprofit says the goal is simple: connect more cats, especially those impacted by military deployments, with families in the community.
Pro Communi Bono
St. Francis De Sales, Ora Pro Nobis!
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