Help support Mama and kittens found at The Depot Grill

On July 7th, while dining at The Depot Grill in downtown Staunton, my friends and I noticed tiny faces peeking out from beneath the restaurant's deck. As we looked closer, we discovered a mama cat and her four tiny kittens seeking shelter. When I asked the staff, they told me they were aware of the little family and had been doing their best to care for them.

I began visiting twice a day to help — making sure they had food and water. They were exposed to the dangers of the recent heat, heavy summer storms, cars, and foot traffic. I knew I had two choices: leave them in a risky environment or try to trap all five — which wouldn’t be easy, especially with young, frightened kittens and a protective mother.

By July 12th, we discovered two of the kittens were missing. Thankfully, a fellow Staunton resident had stepped in and managed to rescue them. A few days later, on the night of July 15th, with the help of Brooke and Ross from Wendy’s Cat Rescue and The Frederick House Hotel, we set out to trap Mom and the two remaining kittens. To our surprise, mama cat and one kitten went into the traps fairly quickly — both were very food motivated. The final kitten was more of a challenge, but around midnight, after a long and patient wait, we caught the final kitten in a small squirrel trap.

Once home, I got them settled in — safe, fed, and comfortable at last.

The next day, after some digging, I was able to get in touch with Stephanie, who had rescued the first two kittens. She agreed it was best to reunite them with their mama and siblings — she acted quickly and now, all five are together again.

This rescue wouldn’t have been possible without the compassion and teamwork of The Depot Grill staff, Ross, Brooke, and Stephanie. I’m grateful for your kindness and help.

Now comes the next chapter: vet care, spay/neuter surgeries, food, litter, and supplies for five cats. If you’d like to help, donations of any kind (monetary, food, litter, etc.) are deeply appreciated. If you'd like to donate supplies please reach out to me to coordinate pick up or drop off please use the contact me link. I can also be reached by sending a message on my business Facebook page, Crack The Code Escape Room. Every little bit helps give these sweet babies a chance at a safe, healthy future — and eventually, loving forever homes.

Thank you in advance.

Beth