Friends of Calaveras Animal Control (FOCAS) at Supervisors meeting

   On June 9, 2015 Debbie Beaufort, President of the new Friends of Calaveras Animal Control went to the podium and spoke of what they are doing for Animal Services.

   "Early in 2014 some residents of Calaveras County decided that the best way to help Calaveras County Animal Services in its day-to-day business would be to found a non-profit
organization that would concentrate on just that.

   This was the beginning of Friends of Calaveras Animal Services or FOCAS.  Initially FOCAS was welcomed by the Calaveras Community Fund to allow for tax deductible donations.

   Now, we are proud to announce that as of last week FOCAS is recognized by the California Franchise Board and the IRS as a non-profit on it's own.

   Apart from all the paperwork involved to become a recognized non-profit organization FOCAL raised over $40,000.

   This shows you the generosity of our community and also highlights the community's sense of importance when it come to the Animal Shelter.

   FOCAS also received a donation of two surplus modular from the Vallecito Union School District and with these donations was able to relocate the buildings to San Andreas next to the old Animal Shelter.

   For the first time ever, Animal Services will be able to appropriately house cats and dogs in their separate housing units.

   The increase in space also will allow Animal Services to house kittens and puppies separately until their immune systems are fully developed.

   I will not be able to list all the generous helpers here, but instead I would like to express our deepest gratitude to all the helpers we have had in this endeavor.

   Thank you!  And this 'thank you' also includes you members of the Board of Supervisor for supporting us.

   We will not stop here!  These two new buildings not only give all the above mentioned benefits to our furry companions by increasing the space by almost 50, but having these buildings will also increase the workload for the Animal Services staff.

   They are in dire need of an additional person to help in the shelter.  Already Animal Control Officers have to cover the shelter or front office three days a week (mind you, Animal Services is a 7 days a week operation).

   An additional Shelter person would not only help to pick up the increased workload, but would also free up the Animal Control Officers so they can be out on the streets to serve and protect the animals and the public.

   We can dot with your support and the support of the community and help from many volunteers.

   Thank you,

   FOCAS  IRS # 36-4790746   For more information or to volunteer call Calaveras Animal Services at 754-6509.