- M
2.25.26 Repair Update from Rainbow Rescue & Retreat
Huzzah! We officially have hot water again and the pipe repairs are complete This is a huge step forward and such a relief.
Our next project is addressing the water damage, mold, and structural damage caused after the initial plumbing company failed to identify the issue during their first three visits. The good news is that we’ve already managed to save up over half of what’s needed for this next phase.
We also have AMAZING news about the HVAC — we received a quote from a small local team that was referred to us, and it’s half the cost of previous estimates to replace the flex ducts and unit. This makes the path forward so much more achievable.
We are incredibly grateful for everyone rooting for us and supporting Rainbow Rescue & Retreat through this rebuilding process. Your kindness, encouragement, and shares truly mean everything.
If you’re able, please consider sharing our GoFundMe to help us continue making progress Every share gets us closer to a safe, stable home again.
Thank you for being part of this journey!
01.04.2026 Update
Thanks to your kindness, we’ve raised part of the funds needed for emergent hot water and plumbing repairs. AND recently placed 5 more animals!
We’re temporarily holding off on HVAC/heat repairs (with help from space heaters graciously gifted by my mom) so we can focus on completing the plumbing work rotting out our home first.
If you’re able to donate, we’d be deeply grateful. If not, we would be grateful for simply a share — kindness and good vibes are always appreciated, especially this season.
Thank you for the support and care.
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.
Update 11.17.25 Cold Weather, Warm Hearts Needed
As the holidays arrive, we’re facing a freezing home, no heat, and several animals still waiting for safe, loving homes.
With the rescue closing, resources are stretched thin, and this winter has become harder than we imagined.
If you can help—by adopting, fostering, donating, or sharing—it truly makes a difference.
Animals Looking for Homes: https://rainbowrescueandretreat.godaddysites.com/available-animals
Thank you for your kindness this season.
—Rainbow Rescue & Retreat
Organiser
