By Foresee Foundation
Despite the ongoing economic challenges, the St. Maarten Animal Welfare Foundation (AWF) had a busy year in 2022. The Foundation's volunteers made a total of 851 home visits, providing much needed care to pets and their owners. Of these home visits, 246 free treatments for cats and dogs with mange were given, helping to alleviate the suffering of animals on the island.
Additionally, the Foundation sponsored 519 low-cost pet sterilizations, thanks to the support of a generous fundraiser by the Amsterdam Cheese shop. However, the Foundation's efforts to find homes for homeless animals faced some challenges, with only 40 animals being placed in adoption homes in the past year. This emphasizes the importance of spaying and neutering to address the pet overpopulation problem on the island.
On a brighter note, the Foundation continued its efforts to promote humane education by supplying all Dutch-side primary schools with bi-monthly educational materials from the Kind News. The hope is that local school children will take these lessons to heart and become responsible pet owners in the future.
The foundation expressed gratitude to the community for their support of the organization's work and for their kind concern for the island's animals. Despite the challenges, the Foundation remains committed to its mission of improving the lives of animals on the island.
The foundation has gained a great reputation not only as the “people to call” to help stray cats and dogs, but also for exotic animals. They have been called out to help pelicans, different kinds of injured birds, turtles and other animals. They had an animal ambulance that was damaged during the passing of Hurricane Irma and it served them well to help with animals on the roads.
Since its establishment on September 21, 1992, at Notary office JGM Speetjens, AWF has been dedicated to providing resources, volunteering hours, and passion towards achieving its mission. The organization has been able to make significant progress over the years in improving the lives of animals on the island.
AWF celebrated its 30th anniversary last year and remains committed to its mission of promoting animal welfare on the island. Through its continued efforts, the SXM AWF is making a significant difference in the lives of animals on St. Maarten, and the organization's dedication to this cause is truly admirable.
To volunteer or support St. Maarten Animal Welfare Foundation, sign up with Volunteer.sx – go to our page and message us, or send us a message on Facebook.
Contact info: Phone: +1 (721) 520-8887; Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; Facebook: @ St. Maarten Animal Welfare Foundation.
