Experience

NORTHERN NEW MEXICO STREET HOMELESS ANIMAL PROJECT INC

• United States
• Non-profit Organizations
• 1 - 100 Employee

• Executive Director

  • Jun 2009 - Present

  In 1998, Karen Cain spotted an older man and his faithful dog, both hobbling down St. Francis Drive in Santa Fe. She stopped and asked if they needed help. He nodded “Yes.” Karen invited the man and his dog into her car, and there the seeds of SHAP began to grow. She continued her “mission of mercy” driving around town with the trunk of her car packed with food, asking the homeless if their companion animals needed food or other care. By 2005, word on the streets spread, and the homeless community began seeking her out through word of mouth. In 2009, this special grassroots program was made an official non-profit, receiving its 501(c)(3) status. Karen shares, “People truly do not know what goes on out there; it’s complicated, it’s gritty and unpredictable. In order for SHAP to succeed, we must know how to color outside the lines; we must think outside the box.” She says, “For most people, it’s about ego; it’s not like that on the street. When your day-to-day life is based on survival there is no room for anything but the reality of the moment.”The Street Homeless Animal Project’s mission is to alleviate suffering and keep homeless animal/human families together. We assist the street homeless community in obtaining veterinary care, food, and supplies for their companion animals.We collaborate closely with Smith Veterinary Hospital, the Santa Fe Animal Shelter, and other animal organizations for spaying and neutering, vaccinations, preventive care and emergency services. We also work with local businesses to provide food and other necessities. We advocate and educate the public and the city about the importance of helping our homeless community.