For decades, the Santa Fe Animal Shelter has been a beacon of hope for animals in need. As CEO, I am deeply proud of our team’s work to protect and care for vulnerable animals. Today, I want to share an honest update about the financial challenges we face—and, more importantly, how we plan to overcome them.
Like many nonprofits, we are navigating financial headwinds. The costs of providing lifesaving care have risen dramatically, outpacing our income. Increased expenses for food, medical supplies, and staffing, coupled with a growing number of animals needing longer stays, have led to a $4 million deficit.
This is not the first time we have faced challenges. Thanks to the resilience of our staff, the generosity of our donors, and the support of our board, we have always found a way forward. In 2023, a generous estate gift allowed us to make critical facility upgrades and invest in our team. A portion of those funds remains in reserve, giving us a financial cushion. However, relying on that reserve alone would be unsustainable. That’s why we have developed a thoughtful, long-term Sustainability Plan to balance our budget by 2028 and ensure we remain a vital resource for animals and the people who love them.
Animal services are a public service, and ensuring the well-being of pets and strays in our community is a responsibility we all share. The Santa Fe Animal Shelter has long operated as a public-private partnership with the City of Santa Fe and Santa Fe County, providing critical services that keep animals safe and support those who care for them. Sustaining this work requires continued collaboration with the city and county and unwavering public support.
Our proactive, three-year strategy prioritizes financial responsibility while staying true to our mission. We are reducing expenses through greater efficiency and mindful spending while increasing revenue across all departments. We take our role as financial stewards seriously and are committed to maximizing every dollar we receive.
This is not a moment for fear, but for focus. We are not making drastic cuts. There are no layoffs at this time, and we have budgeted for merit-based salary increases. Our commitment to providing high-quality animal care remains unwavering. Our approach is one of careful planning, strategic growth, and collaboration.
A community is only as strong as the compassion it shows to its most vulnerable, and the health of our Shelter reflects Santa Fe’s values. When our Shelter thrives, our city thrives—caring for its animals, supporting its nonprofits, and prioritizing kindness. To ensure transparency and engage with the community, we will be hosting forums to answer questions, provide more details on our plan, and hear directly from those who support our mission. We encourage the community to engage with our website and social media for details on those community forums.
Santa Fe is a place that values its animals, and our shelter is a reflection of that compassion. We have weathered storms before, and with this community’s support, we will emerge stronger than ever. Santa Fe Animal Shelter is more than just a shelter; it is a promise that every animal deserves safety, love, and a second chance.
We need your help to keep that promise. Your donation—whether large or small—ensures that every animal that comes through our doors receives the care they deserve. If you’ve ever adopted, fostered, volunteered, or felt a connection to our work, now is the time to show your support.
Together, we are not just addressing a financial challenge; we are writing the next chapter in our history—one that secures our future and strengthens the community we all cherish.
