'Fix Our Ferals' Closed Citing Funding Sustainability Issues

EL CERRITO, CA- To the disappointment of many, Fix Our Ferals announced Tuesday that operations have been temporarily suspended at their El Cerrito area clinic, citing funding sustainability issues.

Local politician, Nicholas Arzio, posted his disappointment on an El Cerrito social media page, stating, "Fix Our Ferals has closed due to lack of funding. I'd like to thank this terrific organization for spaying and neutering a total of nearly 20,000 local feral cats. I hope they find a way to reopen soon. They provided an important community service and will be missed."

The organization explained that they will be sending out a survey to ask for feedback, stating, “We will need your help and ideas as we prepare to re-start and help more and more cats.”

In the meantime, alternate East Bay spay–neuter services are available at:

• Evergreen Pet Clinic at 510-215-9980
• Animal Care Clinic 510-222-9966

Facebook reacted strongly to this announcement, with dozens of locals expressing disappointment.

Jane Stutfield said, “This is so sad. I really hope you will be able to reopen and continue to help our East Bay cats. You have made a huge difference in helping to reduce the feral cat population. Thank you to the staff and volunteers of FOF.”

Heidi Rand said, "Well, I'm sad (and furious) to say that my immediate reaction, that this sounded like something a union-busting company would do - shut down and then reopen later, paying non-union workers much less, appears perhaps to be correct. I thought I was over-reacting, but have just heard from someone fired that indeed, the Board is intending to open again in a few months with all volunteers. I'm horrified and can't imagine that people will volunteer after such a huge breach of trust. Here are the names of the people on the Board, if you have any input about this. Heather Lee, Board President, Ann Duveneck, Treasurer, Linda McCormick, Founder, Kathy Condron, Alice Mead, Dairne Ryan."

Many offered to make donations to the cause, such as:

Maureen Barnato oh no! To echo many: the community needs FoF desperately, and yes, right when we're headed into kitten season... Seems you would have many to rally 'round you~ a GoFundMe while you consider future? Let us know, please.

Fix Our Ferals website has a donation link available here.

Photo via Fix Our Ferals Facebook