AC&C Issues Meow To Action

Calling on the community to help burgeoning feline population 

AC&C, a nonprofit organization contracted by the City of New York to take in any animal in need, is receiving a staggering number of cats and kittens each day, and is renewing its call on New Yorkers to help find homes for thousands of felines this summer. AC&C is extending indefinitely its reduced adoption fees of $5 for adult cats and $20 for kittens six months and under.

The goal of AC&C’s Meow to Action, launched July 24, was to find homes for at least 100 cats over the course of four days, as well as raise awareness. The NY Daily News, Gothamist, Metro, and 1010 WINS were among the media outlets that covered the need for adopters. Of the population which is growing daily 73 cats were adopted by members of the public, and an additional 90 cats were placed with AC&C’s partner animal welfare organizations and rescue groups (known as New Hope partners). But at the same time, more than 250 cats arrived at AC&C’s shelters in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Staten Island.

Animals arrive at AC&C for a variety of reasons. While many are strays, many others are owner-surrenders. On July 25 alone, more than 90 cats and kittens were brought in to AC&C.

"With the help of ‘New York’s Kindest’ AC&C seeks to keep pace with all these intakes,” says Risa Weinstock, Executive Director of AC&C. “Adoptions, foster care and community awareness are essential. By extending our reduced fees and promotion indefinitely, we are hopeful we will see a real impact."

In 2013, AC&C took in approximately 18,000 cats from across the five boroughs. April through September --  “kitten season” -- are particularly busy months as thousands of kittens and cats are brought in. Last summer alone, AC&C took in nearly 6,000 cats, enough to fill every seat in Radio City Music Hall.

Want to make a difference? Meet great cats available for adoption daily at AC&C’s three Care Centers, open 12 – 7 pm (you can also view animals online). In addition, AC&C’s Mobile Adoption Center  ("MAC") is traveling the city with adorable cats as well as dogs up for adoption. The next mobile adoption event will be Saturday, August 2, 12 - 4 pm at the Gateway Animal Hospital in Staten Island (4236 Hylan Boulevard). Be sure to check out our Events page for details on upcoming MAC dates and locations!

Not in a position to adopt but want to help care temporarily for a cat (or dog)  in need? Consider joining AC&C’s foster team, and sign up for an orientation online. The next orientation will be the evening of Monday, August 4.