Friends of Oakland Animal Services reach out to community amid budget cuts

(KRON) — Friends of Oakland Animal Services (FOAS) is reaching out to the community for support for, what it calls, “catastrophic” budget cuts.

OAS — the animal shelter for the City of Oakland — said that it is “determined to maintain and increase the highest save rate” despite the city slashing the agency’s budget.

Since 2020, OAS said it has lost 30% of its staff members and 40% of its budget for food and supplies, while its animal intake has surged over 40%.

FOAS said it is working with city officials to create a sustainable model which allows OAS to focus on its day-to-day operations and gives FOAS the opportunity to build programs that assist low-income pet owners and save animals city-wide.

“We have an incredible opportunity to seize this moment to make meaningful and lasting change to help Oakland’s animals and the people who care for them,” said Oakland Animal Services in a news statement.

FOAS said community members can help by donating, becoming a fundraiser, volunteering, hosting a house party or putting up a yard sign.

FOAS announced a town hall meeting is planned for Tuesday, May 27 at 6 p.m. at Temascal Works.