Sowa Goat Sanctuary

I have been touched by a magical place run by beautiful, selfless people and a home to the most precious animals. Each has its own story of abuse, neglect, or disability. Yet, when you look into their eyes, you see an innocence and spirit that is indescribably special. When I first began volunteering at the sanctuary, I recall asking Olivia, the founder, what she has been most impacted by through her work, and her response was unforgettable. She said, in essence, that she has seen animals come to her from the most horrific circumstances. It astounds her how gracefully they release the trauma and spend each day living with joy despite their physical and or emotional wounds. These animals have taught her how to handle adversity and pain and still find happiness in each day. Olivia and Jim have devoted their lives, their resources, and their energy to providing a haven for these animals to live out their natural lives. Surrounded by incredible volunteers and staff, they have created a most remarkable place. Both Olivia and Jim are soft-spoken, humble people who shower all of the animals with the most unconditional love and care, and it has deeply touched my heart. It is my hope this holiday season to raise money for their farm because every cent they receive gets put directly into the care and comfort of these creatures. It is an immense responsibility to provide for their rescues, and the more they have, the more Olivia and Jim will do because that is the very essence of who they are. Sowa is a Tibetan word that means “to heal, mend, and nourish” and that is exactly what they provide to their residents. Please consider adding them to your holiday giving.

WHAT'S THE PROJECT? The very first rescue and rehabilitation facility in Massachusetts dedicated specifically to special needs farm animals.

WHERE'S THE PROJECT: The facility will be located at Sowa Goat Sanctuary, a 501c3 nonprofit located in Harvard, MA. We provide lifelong holistic care to abused, neglected, and special needs farm animals.

FACILITY DETAILS: This 30x40 foot facility will include stalls designed to fit the unique needs of animals with a wide range of disabilities as well as a large indoor exercise area where they can have time in their wheelchairs and do their physical therapy sessions even in inclement weather, which we have a lot of here in New England! It will also include a covered porch so the animals can still enjoy time outside even in the rain. It will have heating to keep them warm in the winter, electricity, and water to provide the best care possible.

WHO'S NEMO? In May of 2023 a tiny goat named Nemo arrived at our sanctuary and completely changed our lives. He was born with deformities of his front legs and required 24/7 around-the-clock care. When he passed away at just 5 months old our hearts were completely shattered. As we processed our grief we began rescuing other special needs goats in his honor and have welcomed 5 additional special needs goats to the sanctuary. This facility will be built in Nemo's honor and will help save so many more animals who would otherwise be euthanized or left to die.