The El Paso Community Foundation is accepting applications for the new Borderland Rescue Fund. Animal welfare organizations may apply for grants of up to $1,500 to assist with essential supplies. The Foundation created the Borderland Rescue Fund in response to the increasing number of area animals requiring care in recent years. In 2024, more than 25,000 animals entered shelters and rescues in the El Paso area.

The application process for the Borderland Rescue Fund is simple and straightforward, to allow organizations to focus on their vital work. Animal welfare organizations from the El Paso area, Southern New Mexico, and West Texas are encouraged to apply.

Nonprofit organizations may apply at epcf.org/borderlandrescuefund.

“Staff and volunteers at animal welfare organizations are often overwhelmed, working tirelessly to ensure the well-being of our community’s animals,” said Tess Passero, program officer with the El Paso Community Foundation. “Our goal is to alleviate some of their burden and show them how much they are valued.”

Other key initiatives of the Borderland Rescue Fund include an expanded 15 location Pet Pantry Network, made possible by a partnership with the City of El Paso and its libraries, and a Medical Reserve Fund for injured and sick animals and their rescuers.

“This is a growing need, that we want to address as comprehensively as possible,” said Eric Pearson, President and CEO of the Foundation.

The Summerlee Foundation, a Dallas-based organization that supports animal protection and historical preservation in Texas, helped make this grant program possible.

You can apply for a grant, donate and get more information about the Borderland Rescue Fund at epcf.org/borderlandrescuefund.