Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries Disburses Emergency Grants to Sanctuaries and Rescue Centers Amid COVID Crisis

July 15, 2020 (Phoenix, AZ) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) is proud to announce the disbursement of over $120,000 in grant funding for GFAS accredited wildlife sanctuaries, rescues and rehabilitation centers, to help cover shortfalls due to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis.

Emergency relief funding for non-U.S. wildlife centers was generously provided by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) and awarded by GFAS to assist sanctuaries and rehabilitation centers with costs relating to needed medications, supplies, and veterinary services for resident animals.  GFAS was also grateful to be a part of an Emergency COVID Wildlife Grants Committee, for the purpose of providing direct financial support to sanctuaries, rescues, and rehabilitation centers located within the United States.  This Committee was comprised of longtime GFAS partners including The Humane Society of the United States, The Summerlee Foundation, Tigers in America, and the Pegasus Foundation.  GFAS is extremely appreciative of the generosity and response of our collaborators during this time of great need, all for the benefit of the animals.

“Despite careful planning for emergencies, the vast majority of our GFAS accredited sanctuaries, rescues, and rehabilitation centers are finding themselves standing in the midst of an immense crisis, due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Valerie Taylor, GFAS Executive Director.  “Decisions to delay or cancel visitor programs, conferences and in-person fundraising events, as well as the closing of national borders have real costs and implications for sanctuaries dependent on these sources of revenue.  GFAS and our member sanctuaries are highly appreciative of all emergency support provided.”

About Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries
Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the sole purpose of strengthening and supporting the work of animal sanctuaries, rescues, and rehabilitation centers worldwide. The goal of GFAS in working with and assisting these animal care facilities is to ensure they are supported, honored, recognized and rewarded for meeting important criteria in providing care to the animals in residence. GFAS was founded in 2007 by animal protection leaders from a number of different organizations in response to virtually unchecked and often hidden exploitation of animals for human entertainment and financial profit. The GFAS Board of Directors guides the organization’s work in a collaborative manner. While the board includes those in top leadership at The Humane Society of the United States, International Fund for Animal Welfare, and American Anti-Vivisection Society, all board members serve as individuals dedicated to animal sanctuaries. www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

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