Morris Animal Refuge is celebrating 150 years, here’s how to show support

This week holds Morris Animal Refuge’s annual sold-out Fur Ball, but for Philadelphians who can’t make it to the March 8 event, there are a few more ways to show love for our city’s furry friends.

The Fur Ball is the organization’s largest event, and its 27th occasion will follow suit, with proceeds from the fundraiser going directly to help the homeless, abandoned, and unwanted pets of the Greater Philadelphia region.

“For 150 years, Morris Animal Refuge has been saving lives and finding forever homes for the Philadelphia area’s lost and abandoned animals,” said Lewis Checchia, Executive Director of Morris Animal Refuge in a statement. “This year’s Fur Ball not only celebrates this historical achievement but also raises much needed funding to help save lives for 150 more.”

As said above, Morris Animal Refuge in Center City has been serving Philadelphia for more than a century. Elizabeth Morris first started her services to animals along with her friend Annie Waln in 1858, and their work was first known as the Morris Refuge Association for Homeless and Suffering Animals. The Morris Animal Refuge then opened its doors years later in 1874, and by doing so, Morris opened the first animal shelter in the United States and the refuge has since provided many “firsts” for the nation when it comes to animal welfare.

For locals and beyond looking to help Morris out in other ways, those who didn’t get to snag gala tickets are invited to engage in the “Fund the Mission” section on their website, a release notes. Through this portion, locals can donate different amounts to provide support in different categories. For example: $25 can feed one animal for a month, while $500 gets complete care for one animal for an entire month, and there are many amounts in between and above to go to various needs.

Morris is also hosting a Silent Auction, with items spanning a Bryson Stott signed bat, lunch for 10 from 12th Street Catering, organic dog treats, a trip to Puerto Rico and plenty more (a full list of options is listed online.)  Philadelphians can also try their luck and support Morris Animal Refuge by entering the 50/50 Raffle—half of the proceeds will go towards the mission, and the other half could be theirs. Raffle tickets can be purchased at 50/50 Raffle online at rallyup.com.

The release also notes that pet lovers can additionally make a direct contribution to Morris Animal Refuge by visiting General Donations on the same site. As Morris says, every donation, regardless of size, plays a crucial role in sustaining the mission and supporting programs such as the Lifesaver Fund, the Fostering Program, and the Adoption Program.

For more information about The Fur Ball or to make a general donation to the shelter, Philadelphians can visit phillyfurball.com.