Kindness for Cats: $100K Fundraiser for Western MA

The Westfield Homeless Cat Project, located in Westfield, MA, operates as a NO KILL and non-profit 501(c)(3) cat and kitten rescue organization.

How We Started:

The story behind our mission is a journey that began with a single act of compassion. In 2006, Denise, our founder, encountered a man dumping a beautiful mother cat and her babies on the side of the road. She questioned him, and learned that his daughter would lose her apartment if she didn't find them a place to go. With little knowledge of shelters at the time, Denise followed a friend's advice and brought them to the local shelter. The devastating news came the next day—they were euthanized because it was kitten season and they were black. Horrified by this experience, Denise made a vow: to start her own rescue and ensure that no cat faced such a fate again.

Westfield Homeless Cat Project Today:

After 18 years of dedication, our small shelter has rescued, vetted, and re-homed over 13,000 cats and kittens. Every feline that enters our humble shelter gets that second chance at life.

Our Ask For Help:

Being a NO KILL facility comes with significant expenses. The cost of supplies and extremely high vet expenses due to increased costs has put a large strain on our finances. We don't receive money from the towns or state that we rescue in. We rely solely on donations, fundraisers, and the occasional grant, which are extremely hard to come by.

Our yearly expenses run up to almost $300,000. So you can imagine how hard everyone has to work to keep up the pace. There are times when, in extreme cases, we spend thousands of dollars to save one precious life. Please help us continue our work by making a small donation. Every little bit helps. We are asking for your support to help us fundraise $100,000 from the Western Mass community. Your generosity ensures that we can continue saving the lives of cats in need. Thank you for considering supporting our cause.

Your donation will benefit cats including those below. Unfortunately, there are many others that need our help just like them.

One day, a cute little kitten arrived at our doorstep, just a day old, soon after her mother had given birth. When we opened the carrier, we noticed all the umbilical cords were wrapped around her tiny legs. Frantically, we worked to free her, but sadly, one cord was wrapped so tightly around her left back foot that she lost all circulation. Eventually, her paw had to be amputated, leaving her as a three-legged fur ball.

Now, at four weeks old, we're facing the certainty of amputating Tripod’s entire left back leg, which can't be done until she's over eight weeks old. The surgery is estimated to cost $2500, perhaps more. Donations to this fund will go directly towards making Tripod’s surgery possible.

Meet Prometheus, a beautiful 2-year-old kitty who was attacked by a bobcat. We were doubtful that we would be able to save him due to his injuries. His entire body was riddled with bite wounds, and he endured several intensive surgeries. After spending months in the hospital receiving specialized care, Prometheus miraculously survived. Now, he's thriving in his new home, embracing his indoor life with love and joy.

Jake was discovered taped in a box by a dumpster, discarded like trash. Fortunately, someone heard his cries and rescued him, bringing him to us. Upon examination, it became clear that Jake was blind, with only limited vision of shadows. Despite his challenges, Jake received regular veterinary care and found a loving foster home.

However, his health took a turn when he began digging at his ears. After a visit to the vet, it was discovered that Jake had polyps in his ears, which required surgical removal. Unfortunately, the polyps were found to be cancerous.

After careful consideration and consultation with the vet, we opted for a surgical procedure called Canal Ablation and Bulla Osteotomy. This involved removing his entire ear canal and middle ear, rendering him completely deaf. Remarkably, Jake recovered from the surgery and was declared cancer-free.

Today, Jake resides happily with his foster parents in Canada, enjoying daily walks, playtime with his feline companions, and the comforts of a good life. His resilience and joy continue to inspire us, reminding us of the value of every life we save.

Introducing Chappy, a charming male kitten born in one of our foster homes. At first glance, his disproportionately large head caught our attention. Upon thorough examination by a surgeon, we received the diagnosis: Hydrocephalus, commonly known as "water on the brain."

Addressing this condition requires a costly surgical procedure ranging from $10,000 to $15,000, with no guarantee of complete success. Additionally, there's the possibility of needing a second surgery if the condition recurs. Despite these challenges, Chappy's endearing personality shines through, evident in the sweetness radiating from his little face.

Louise and her sister Thelma arrived at our shelter when they were just three weeks old, both battling severe illness. Their eyes were swollen shut, a heartbreaking sight that filled us with worry. Through tender care, time, and medication, their eyes gradually healed. However, while Thelma flourished, Louise faced challenges.

Our observant foster mom noticed Louise's lethargy and difficulty walking, prompting a visit to the vet. The diagnosis was devastating: a ventricular defect, a hole in her heart muscle that separates the right and left side. Despite ongoing monitoring, the hole persists, casting a shadow over Louise's future.

Yet, in her foster home, surrounded by love and her beloved sister. Despite her health struggles, she exudes affection and warmth, proving that love knows no bounds.

Your support ensures that cats like Louise receive the care and attention they need to live fulfilling lives, despite the obstacles they face. Join us in our mission to provide hope and healing to homeless cats in need.

Meet Little Buddy, a resilient boy with a big heart facing a painful challenge. Little Buddy recently visited the vet and was diagnosed with bladder stones, a condition that brings discomfort and uncertainty. The cost of diagnosing and treating this condition is significant, ranging from $368 to $590 for the vet visit alone, not including treatment. Surgery to remove bladder stones typically costs between $1,200 to $2,100, covering pre-anesthetic bloodwork, the procedure itself, and take-home medication. Additionally, follow-up care is crucial for Little Buddy's recovery. With your support, we can ensure that Little Buddy receives the care he needs to overcome this obstacle and continue spreading joy with his loving presence. Your generosity makes a world of difference in Little Buddy's journey to health and happiness.

For more information on the Westfield Homeless Cat Project, please visit our website.