I’m Valeria, and for the past 2 to 3 years I have been caring for feral cat colonies in North Lawndale, Chicago, in the 60623 community, every single day. North Lawndale has historically been neglected and underfunded, especially when it comes to animal care, and that makes life even harder for the many feral and stray cats here. In my neighborhood, there is one of the highest populations of feral and stray cats in the city, and I currently look after more than 30 cats. I feed them, help get them spayed and neutered, make sure they are vaccinated, build shelters for them, and keep a close eye on their health and safety. These cats have become a part of my daily life, and I care deeply about protecting them. Recently, both the cats and I were threatened by neighbors who dislike cats and said they wanted to harm them. That fear is what pushed me to create this fundraiser.

The funds raised will first go toward security cameras so I can better protect the colonies and document any danger to them. After that, I will use the funds for winter shelters so the cats have a safer, warmer place to survive the cold. If there are any funds left, they will go toward medical care for the cats who need treatment. These cats already face so much on the streets, including illness, starvation, and cruelty from people who see them as pests. I see them as living beings who deserve kindness, compassion, love, and protection. They did not choose this life, and while I will continue to do everything I can for them, I truly cannot do it alone. I would be so grateful for any donation or support you can give to help keep these cats safe.