March 3, 2012 Encinitas, CA
We have great news to share with you! Two of San Diego County’s most trusted animal welfare organizations, Friends of County Animal Shelters (FOCAS) and Rancho Coastal Humane Society (RCHS), have become one. This partnership allows us to help a greater number of homeless animals in our community. Your support is needed more than ever!
When FOCAS began their mission more than 25 years ago, they were the first animal rescue organization working exclusively with San Diego County’s three shelters. Now, the number of rescue groups involved with the County shelters is approaching 160! By bringing RCHS and FOCAS together, under one roof, resources and manpower can be utilized more effectively to benefit our homeless animals.
FOCAS was formed in 1986 to support the San Diego County Department of Animal Services. The co-founders of FOCAS, Peggy Howell and Sue Geller, set out to create a strong adoption program, in partnership with the County shelters. Since that time, with the help of FOCAS, more than 8,000 dogs and cats have found homes.
For over 50 years, RCHS has cared for homeless companion animals, promoting a strong adoption program, conducting educational workshops on topics such as responsible pet ownership, the importance of spaying and neutering, and creating an Animal Safehouse program for the pets of domestic violence victims.
Former FOCAS President Nancy Heitel explains, “RCHS and FOCAS share the same vision and goals. That’s why this merger is a great step for both organizations, and it’s definitely a ‘win-win’ outcome for the animals of San Diego County. The work of FOCAS will continue under the banner of RCHS. This joining of forces expands what each organization could accomplish individually.”
Even though RCHS has been in the business of saving lives for more than half a century, we are new to many FOCAS adopters, donors, and volunteers. Please stop by and visit us. If you are already a supporter of RCHS, come by and see what new developments we have made. For the animals,
Jim Silveira
President
Rancho Coastal Humane Society, 389 Requeza St., Encinitas, CA • 760-753-6413