Hello Oakland Neighbors. I have been carrying for a colony of 12-14 cats in the Millsmont neighborhood for several months after the gentleman whose yard and basement they occupy died suddenly and they were left without food and water. As I have been getting to know them, I have been working on socializing them and preparing them for their next steps toward re-homing.

I also have been working tirelessly to get those who are unfixed spay/neuter appointments which I was finally able to get scheduled at EBSPCA starting next week. This alone was a major feat which anyone who knows about the crisis that animal care and rescue is facing in Oakland right now can attest to!

Neither OAS nor EBSPCA offers vouchers for community cats anymore; they also are not taking any cats so I am reaching out to the community to see if others can help with the following:

1. Trapping assistance and/also borrowing traps.

2. Any financial assistance for the spay/neuter appointments. Each cat is $50 and there are about 8-10 who need still need fixing.

3. Any food or financial assistance for feeding the cats. I have personally spent over $2,000 at this point as I have been searching for solutions, while simultaneously trying to navigate a recent family tragedy which has been overwhelming.

4. Most importantly, and the primary reason I have made these cats my pet project, is I believe all animals deserve a home and I have been the proud mama of many so called "ferals" who ended up being the most incredible companions I could hope for. I lost my most beloved companion suddenly and unexpectedly just before this situation arose, and in many respects, I have been doing this to honor her.

Finding homes for each of these kitties, could mean a garden or other outdoor space if you are not in a position to bring them inside. They are used to that and simply need ongoing food, water, shelter from the elements and to know that someone loves them and will not let them suffer.

Please contact me for more info and pictures if you are interested in taking in and caring for any of these beautiful beasts. There are two black females, Itsy & Bitsy, who are totally bonded and living in the basement that you will see at the end of the video. They would make great house pets once they get over the shock of being trapped and spayed...