The <a href="http://fkspca.org/newshelter/why-we-need-one/" target="_blank">FLORIDA KEYS SPCA</a> operates out of a facility in Key West, (yes, the United States' southernmost city!) that is literally crumbling around us. <img class="not-resizable" src="https://d2g8igdw686xgo.cloudfront.net/20347514_1507229318.4447_funddescription.jpg" alt="" width="100%" /> What were already old buildings in disrepair have deteriorated even further with the pervasive saltwater intrusion from Hurricane Wilma in 2005, and most recently, battering winds and hard-driven rains from Irma that passed through the Florida Keys Sept. 10, 2017. ( Current images shown here were taken days after Irma) <img class="not-resizable" src="https://d2g8igdw686xgo.cloudfront.net/20347514_1507229493.4187_funddescription.jpg" alt="" width="100%" /> Spalling in the concrete walls affecting entire columns as a result of saltwater intrusion is only worsening.   We MUST keep the shelter open and operational, despite these new challenges. Because our buildings become unsafe during subtropical weather conditions, <a href="http://fkspca.org/volunteer/foster-care/" target="_blank">we evacuate every animal into foster homes</a> when a hurricane threatens the Florida Keys. In preparation for Irma's arrival, we did exactly that. However, it doesn’t take a hurricane to cause disruption. The buildings are subject to flooding during the routine thunderstorms we see so often in the Keys.  WE ARE NOW IN PEAK STORM SEASON. <img class="not-resizable" src="https://d2g8igdw686xgo.cloudfront.net/20347514_1507229555.7573_funddescription.jpg" alt="" width="100%" /> In addition to what is visible on the surface, our facility systems are so outdated as to endanger the health of the animals in our care. For example, with heavy rains come rats. Additionally, we have inadequate means of quarantining any sick animals because EACH individual area's air handling system reaches the ENTIRE building (cross-ventilation, versus isolated air). That means that whenever an animal develops a contagious ailment, that ONE case can often develop into an outbreak throughout the shelter as a result of not having a way to isolate the individual cases. A new, safe facility is the goal, and for nearly 8 years of dedicated fundraising for donations, in late 2016 we finally broke ground on an alternative, safer location for the animals, staff and volunteers.  Watch our video above! But we still need help. We haven't reached the end goal YET. Thankfully, Irma did not damage the construction site of the new shelter. For that we are blessed.  We DO NOT receive any funding from national ASPCA, and we have reached this hurdle completely dependent upon generous COMMUNITY HELP and DONATIONS. Donations from folks like you, who care for the well-being of the most vulnerable animals.  <img class="not-resizable" src="https://d2g8igdw686xgo.cloudfront.net/20347514_1507229616.3117_funddescription.jpg" alt="" width="100%" /> There are critical  equipment needs that the Key West shelter must have in place, namely a GENERATOR, but also integral hardware and furnishings inside the building. Storms have the potential to damage power supply for unknown time periods depending upon the weather's severity, and impact resources we need to maintain normal daily operations at the shelter that houses hundreds of animals.   Will you help?  Only pledge what you can live with, we ask no more.   The Florida Keys, a living paradise for us humans, are also home to abandoned, abused, neglected animals. We hope you can contribute to our mission to building a SAFE place for these HOMELESS, lovable and LOVING creatures.  Thank You! <img class="not-resizable" src="https://d2g8igdw686xgo.cloudfront.net/20347514_1494615124.547_funddescription.jpg" alt="" width="100%" />

Erika Rivera

Elizabeth Rhodes

DesaRae Janszen

Bizzy Bam Bam Barton

Amy Hundley

Anonymous

Amie Nielsen

Kathryn Lauther

Courtney Exum

Elena Nayko

Amy Rachel

Cathy Baier

Karen Robey

Anthony Yaniz

Dina Tampa

Liz Osborn

Kade Mortenson

Key West Animals Need Safe Shelter

Key West Animals Need Safe Shelter

Still $247,940 to go. Help us build momentum.