Hi, my name is Joanie Murphy, though many people know me as the cat lady.

For the past 8 years, I’ve dedicated my life to caring for community cats that have been abandoned or left to survive on the streets. I go out 365 days a year, 7 days a week, feeding multiple colonies, getting cats spayed and neutered, rescuing the injured, and finding loving homes whenever possible. This isn’t something I do part-time, it’s my life.

I do this work mostly on my own, with occasional help from generous community members who donate food or supplies. I also work hard labor jobs to support myself and keep this mission going. I don’t have days off, but I believe deeply in what I’m doing. These cats have given my life purpose, and in many ways, they’ve saved me too.

On Friday night, January 30th, while I was out feeding the cats, something terrifying happened. A man driving aggressively came up behind me, revved his engine, and accelerated into my vehicle, totaling it. He nearly hit me, and I truly believe that if I had been standing just a little differently, this story could have ended very differently. Though unfortunately my car was totaled and i am unable to drive it to work in any capacity.

My car wasn’t a luxury, but it was how I:

Get food to the cat colonies

Transport injured or sick cats to the vet

Get to and from my physically demanding jobs

Continue caring for animals who rely on me every single day

Right now, I am urgently in need of a dependable vehicle. I’m not asking for anything fancy, just something reliable so I can continue working, feeding the cats, and doing the rescue work that has become my life’s purpose.

Asking for help is not easy for me, but without a car, everything I’ve worked so hard to maintain is at risk, including the care of these animals who have no one else.

If you’re able to donate or share this fundraiser, I would be beyond grateful. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for helping me continue to care for those babies who have no voice.

❤️

Joanie