05/11/2024
This is devastating news. They have nowhere to go, with over 300 animals
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
**Heartbreaking Setback for Fallen Angels Pet Rescue as City Zoning Regulations Force Relocation**
Melkbosstrand, Cape Town – After over a decade of dedication to rescuing and caring for abandoned animals, Fallen Angels Pet Rescue faces an uncertain future. Co-founders Gayl Basson, Shireen Williams and the late Lilian Williams, have tirelessly provided a safe haven for hundreds of animals in Melkbosstrand, creating a sanctuary for those in need. However, a recent zoning decision by the City of Cape Town has left the organization facing the daunting task of relocating its beloved animal care center.
Founded on a dream to offer animals a permanent refuge, Fallen Angels Pet Rescue has weathered countless challenges since its inception. The team overcame early struggles with inadequate resources, operating without water, electricity, and proper shelter. Despite the hardships, the founders remained steadfast in their mission, transforming the land into a secure and loving environment for the animals they care for.
Yet on November 1, 2024, after investing over two and a half years and nearly R250,000 in compliance efforts, the organization received word from the City of Cape Town that their application for a Special Consent Use Permit had been denied. The property’s proximity to the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station, within a regulated 5km zone, makes the rescue center ineligible for its intended use. The City’s decision has left Fallen Angels Pet Rescue with no option but to vacate its current location.
“This has been devastating news for all of us,” says co-founder Gayl Basson “We’ve poured our hearts, our blood, sweat, and tears into making this a safe haven. Moving will be incredibly challenging, but we cannot give up on these animals who have already been through so much.”
Now, Fallen Angels Pet Rescue urgently calls upon its supporters and the broader community to rally behind them. The organization faces enormous costs and logistical challenges associated with dismantling and relocating the farm infrastructure, as well as safely transporting over 300 animals to a new sanctuary.
**How You Can Help Fallen Angels Pet Rescue in This Crisis:**
- **Donate** to the Fallen Angels Rescue Relocation Fund
- **Volunteer** to assist with demolition and rebuilding efforts
- **Offer** transportation services for the animals’ safe transfer
- **Adopt or Foster** to help ease the transition for senior and other vulnerable animals
- **Share** the organization’s story to raise awareness and support
- **Contribute your skills** – any assistance or ideas are welcomed
With the holiday season approaching, Fallen Angels Pet Rescue urges individuals to consider making a difference by supporting this essential relocation effort. Donations of any amount can help the organization rebuild and continue its mission to protect and care for animals in need. Fallen Angels is committed to ensuring that every animal remains safe and well-cared-for, regardless of the obstacles ahead.
For more information, please contact:
**Contact Information:**
Fallen Angels Pet Rescue
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 084 688 7111
Website: www.fallenangels.org.za
About Fallen Angels Pet Rescue
Founded over a decade ago, Fallen Angels Pet Rescue in Melkbosstrand is dedicated to providing a safe haven for abandoned and abused animals. The organization has rescued and rehabilitated hundreds of animals, driven by a deep commitment to animal welfare and compassion.
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We call on the community to join us as we work to overcome this challenge. Together, we can ensure that Fallen Angels Pet Rescue endures as a refuge of hope and compassion for countless animals in need.
