Help Save Clay County Animal Shelter

In 2014, seeing a great need, Nancy Bailey spearheaded a campaign to establish a Animal Shelter in Clay County. She began by calling a great group of ladies who held the same passion for homeless animals that she did. They all agreed there was a huge need as well, so they began meeting on a regular basis to try to make this become a reality.

After a year of numerous meetings, brainstorming, fundraising,  etc., The Clay County Animal Shelter opened in September 2015. The need was so great that their facility was full when opened.

At first, it was very well received by the public and they had lots of volunteers, contributions and support from the community. They were able to stay afloat by donations, fundraisers and support from the cities and County.

Because they were leasing the building from a former Veterinarian,  they were hoping to do a rent to own, however that did not go as planned when the building exchanged hands.

After the new wore off, the Volunteers were scarce. These ladies worked very hard seven days a week and never received a penny for their contribution to society.

In March 2016, Nancy Bailey lost her battle against cancer. One of her dying wishes was that the Shelter remain open, however,  this is where the downward spiral for the facility began, as many obstacles were thrown in this path. The Shelter became the innocent victim in a political battle which kept them in court over funding for three years, which I won't even get into because it is ridiculous. But in the end,  the Shelter lost the fight.

With volunteers falling off, The county began letting a few inmates work at the Shelter, but this didn't last long before things went downhill and had to be stopped. One of the inmates who worked there went back after his release and although on the outside appeared to be a great worker, was robbing them blind. He even broke into some of the ladies homes as well. He remains in jail at this time.

At this time, the Shelter is struggling to stay open. Their donations, which is their sole income have dwindled to just a handful of long-time supporters. They received word that their rent will increase to $700 next month, not to mention, that the building they rent is for sale. There are also many much-needed repairs to the building as well. 

Our mission here is to raise enough money to buy this building for the Shelter, plus expense for these vital repairs. If the Shelter owns the building, they will not only be free of their biggest debt,  they will also be able to apply for grants that would keep them self-sufficient.

Over the past 6 years, The Shelter has helped save over 1600 animals and is much-needed in this county. They are a no-kill 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and have survived with the support of their community and they need our help now more than ever.

The cost of the building is $112,000 and the repairs will cost well over $25,000. Therefore, we are asking, or pleading for your support in ending this financial struggle this facility has been drowning in for years. If our goal is not met, we will make sure that whatever money is raised will go towards future rent, utilities,, and repairs of the building.

For more information about the Shelter,  you can visit their Facebook page: