About Us
Vernonia Cat Rescue is a recognized Animal Rescue Entity through the Oregon Department of Agriculture, and a federally designated 501(c)3 nonprofit organization in the 509(a)2 subcategory. Donations to Vernonia Cat Rescue are tax deductible retroactive to March 13, 2025.
Our mission is to:
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Encourage pet owners to spay and neuter cats
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Assist community members and neighborhoods with trapping, spay/neuter and return (TNR) of feral, stray and abandoned cats
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Rescue, feed, and provide veterinary support for and socialization of feral, sick or abandoned kittens
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Assist community members with access to veterinary care for sick and injured cats and kittens
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Foster and rehome homeless cats and kittens
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Provide community education and resources
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Our Story
Before 2025, cat rescue efforts in Vernonia were limited to a group of loosely organized volunteers who worked diligently to help local cats and kittens, primarily funding foster and rescue efforts with their own money.
In early 2025, local Vernonia residents Kim Tierney, Chelsea Howley, Jenn VanCura and Betsy Melo came together to officially organize Vernonia Cat Rescue, creating a Charter and a Board. The group applied for both Oregon state Rescue status and Federally registered 509a2 Nonprofit status. Federal nonprofit status was granted in August 2025.
Meet Vernonia Cat Rescue's
Board and Volunteers
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions and answers for Vernonia Cat Rescue.
I can't keep my cat/kitten. Can you take it?
Vernonia Cat Rescue is volunteer-based with limited resources, and can only take in cats and kittens under certain circumstances. Please contact us directly and share your situation.
Can I adopt a cat or kitten from you?
We sometimes have cats and/or kittens available for adoption! Please contact us to learn more.
A cat showed up at my house. What should I do?
We can provide you with advice and information about your options if a stray or feral cat has appeared in your neighborhood or on your property. Please reach out to us.
What happens to the cats and kittens that your rescue takes in?
Vernonia Cat Rescue partners with the Oregon Humane Society to spay/neuter, vaccinate, and adopt out the majority of our cat and kitten rescues and fosters. We do our best to rehome any cats that are not accepted by Oregon Humane.
Are you an official nonprofit rescue?
Yes, we are registered with the United States Federal Government as a509a2 Nonprofit pet rescue organization. Donations to our rescue are tax deductible.
Can you help me pay for medical care, spay/neuter, or vaccines for my cat?
Please reach out to us and share details about your situation to learn if we can help you.