Help Us Rebuild After Rainbow Rescue & Retreat

Sephie Lee is organizing this fundraiser.

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Running Rainbow Rescue & Retreat came at a serious personal cost. Caring for animals of all kinds—cats, dogs, rabbits, rats, reptiles, birds, and more—took such a toll on us that I am now struggling with work and disability, on top of major debt. Our total estimated damage costs of replacement range from Low-end: $40,675 and High-end: $67,500. We are setting a goal of $20,000 to at least cover the critical HVAC and carpentry repairs portion of this.

Many of you have asked how you can help me personally. That’s why we are creating this fundraiser—so those who want to give back to the person behind the rescue have a way to do so. Even foregoing your $5 cup of coffee this week can help us rebuild.

The sanctuary itself was a safe haven for animals who had nowhere else to go, but our home was no longer our own and sustained years of heavy use and now needing serious repair. Over the years, we personally put dozens of thousands of dollars into the sanctuary for vet care, repairs, supplies, and beyond because donations ALWAYS fell short and rescues run on tiny budgets with only volunteer support. We stepped up when others would and could not.

The damage includes:

Floors replaced multiple times
Walls, trim, and doors damaged
Multiple washers and dryers destroyed or flooded (3-4 a year each)
Plumbing that failed repeatedly over the years due to animal debris and use or damage
Crawlspace & yard destroyed
HVAC system and ducts requiring replacement after animal debris and damage ❄️

I also want to share something important: these repair costs are not “overpriced” options. I've worked with dozens of contractors and businesses comparing and to create estimates and proposals that accurately reflect the safest, legal, and most effective routes for both humans and animals. Cheaper and DIY fixes in the past to put a Band-Aid on a bullet wound have only led to more breakdowns —ultimately costing more in the long run and risking safety. This time, repairs need to be done right.

Donations will go directly toward:

Fixing plumbing and water systems
Redoing floors, walls, trim, and doors
Replacing washers, dryers, and other essential equipment
Repairing the crawlspace and replacing the HVAC system

Your support helps rebuild the home and allows recovery after years of giving everything to care for animals of all kinds. Even a small contribution—or sharing this campaign—makes a meaningful difference.

Please donate or share this campaign. Every bit of support helps restore the home and allows recovery after years of dedication to animals in need.