Answering the Call for More Warmth and Touch: The Cat Connection

Brookline MA

25 February, 2021

10:53 AM

Description

Local Students’ Art Adds Cheer as TCC Celebrates a 21-Year Dream Come TrueThe Cat Connection (TCC) of Waltham and Brighton, which adopts cats into forever homes throughout Greater Boston, is about to realize a 21-year dream. This April, TCC will open its first-ever, state-of-the-art shelter at 167 Chestnut Hill Avenue, Brighton. The shelter will extend the services of the nonprofit, volunteer-run organization, which fosters and adopts out more than 100 cats per year in Greater Boston, and cares for local feral colonies. “We’re thrilled to provide even more support to the community, especially this year,” said Morgan Ritz, President. “Pets have become so important during COVID-19, as people crave warmth and touch. There are also more cats needing to be rescued than we’ve seen before. We’re so grateful to the families, businesses, volunteers and sponsors who have brought this shelter to fruition.” TCC, which was founded in 2000 and is headquartered in Waltham, does everything possible to connect the right cats with the right families, and then strives to ensure that every match is permanent. That includes providing financial assistance for veterinary prescriptions, and a pet-food pantry for those falling on hard times. In addition, TCC offers a Feline Charm School for cats needing more socialization to fit into families, led by certified cat behaviorist Rachel Geller, Ed.D. The new shelter builds on these innovations to keep cats and kittens happy, healthy and relaxed. Under the direction of TCC’s first paid staff member, Stephanie Yemma, it is specially designed with their comfort in mind. Features include “pods” (versus cages) with enough space for healthy kittens to play, and one-way windows so cats can see out, but aren’t stressed by groups of people looking in. Beginning Monday, April 5, TCC leaders will display “cat art” from Brighton and Waltham students outside its front windows—as an expression of appreciation to the communities that have embraced them. “We’re excited to get to know more local families and businesses, and welcome new volunteers,” said Morgan Ritz. Visits to the shelter will be by appointment at the beginning, and the exact opening day will be announced in March. To reserve an appointment time, join TCC’s network of foster cat parents, learn more about cats for adoption, or help feed the cats in local feral colonies, please contact TCC at 781-899-4610 or see TheCatConnection.org. About The Cat Connection The Cat Connection (TCC) of Waltham, Mass. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, no-kill organization focused on ensuring that every cat will live “happily ever after” in a loving home. The organization fosters abandoned cats and kittens, facilitates their adoption, and feeds local feral cat colonies. For more information and to learn more about the planned opening of TCC’s first shelter in Brighton, Mass., visit TheCatConnection.org.