Rockland Boulders Fans Care About the Strays

Most would say a kitten does not belong at a baseball stadium.

At last Saturday evening’s Boulder’s game, though, no one seemed to be complaining.

The seven-week-old kitten, named Sassy, could be found at a table near the entrance of the Pomona arena, where Care About the Strays (C.A.T.S.) was holding a fundraiser.

The table was set up by the non-profit organization in the hopes of raising awareness about their effort to help stray and feral cats, as well as receive donations.

“People are starting to know us, but we still need a lot of help,” said Susan Edelstein, who organized Saturday’s event. In Edelstein’s opinion, what C.A.T.S.  needs the most are people willing to give their time.

Volunteers with C.A.T.S. were selling 50/50 raffle tickets and tee shirts—and, of course, putting the kitten on display.

Sassy, her mother and the rest of her litter were found soaking wet and abandoned in Westchester several weeks ago. While many animal organizations from Westchester turned away the litter, C.A.T.S made sure they could help.

“We don’t say no unless we absolutely have to,” said Kristen Ross, a volunteer. Such action is benevolent, but becomes increasingly difficult when funds are tight, Ross added.

Sassy was the only kitten of her litter not to have been adopted yet, so the volunteers were hoping for passers-by to fall love with her.

“People have the misconception that cats can take care of themselves,” Edelstein said. “They can a little, but the smallest things can kill them.” So in addition to Sassy, C.A.T.S. is eager to have all of their cats currently being fostered adopted or watched over by caretakers.

From 50/50 raffle ticket sales, the organization raised close to $4,000; the winner of the raffle was given his share $2,000.

Surprising to C.A.T.S., though, was that the winner gave half of his own earnings back to the organization.

Most successful of all was raising awareness in Rockland, volunteers told Patch.

“We’re a little group trying to do big things,” Ross said. “And we have to start by getting our name out there.” 

________________________________________________________

Every Saturday and Sunday Care About the Strays adopts out kittens and cats from Petsmart in Nanuet from 10am-3pm.  They have all been tested for FIV/FLV and have been given age appropriate shots.  For additional info. you can contact Susan @strykery2k@aol.com and she will direct you to the proper person who can answer any questions you may have.