We’re excited to announce the creation of “30A CATS” — a non-profit organization — formed to help manage the overpopulation of stray and feral cats and kittens in the region, primarily along Highway 30A and parts of Highway 98. Bridget Kornder, founder of 30-A CATS, has resided part time in the 30A area for over 10 years. Over time, she discovered that there is an ever-increasing population of stray and feral cats that live in our area. Unfortunately, the situation is exacerbated because Walton County, unlike most other counties in Florida, does not offer a low-cost spay/neuter alternative to area residents and their pets.
“As a life-long animal lover, I decided to start a nonprofit 501(c)3 so that every dollar donated can go straight to help the stray and feral cats who are so desperately in need in Walton County. One unspayed female and her offspring can produce an astounding 5,000 cats in 7 years,” said Kornder.
Kornder launched 30A CATS in April of 2021 with a group of seven dedicated volunteers, none of whom are compensated for their time, talent or services. Trapping, neutering and releasing (TNR) has proven to be a highly effective method to help control feral cat populations. Since April, the volunteers of 30A Cats have trapped, neutered and released over 700 cats/kittens along Highway 30A and Highway 98. In October, the organization hosted a free vaccine clinic for cats and dogs where over 120 animals were given free vaccines. The organization has spent $120,000 to date through private donations. “We’re able to find homes for many kittens, but we continue to have many colonies of cats in neighborhoods and planned communities,” said Kornder. “We have amazing volunteers, but we are in desperate need of even more volunteers, fosters, adopters and donors to help support our cause to reduce populations and care for these beautiful creatures. 30A CATS is already making a huge impact, and we are committed to helping provide a sustainable solution to the overpopulation of cats in our area,” she added. “We also are in dire need of funds for food, vet care and vaccinations to take care of existing populations.”
Contributions can be made through the organization’s website 30ACATS.ORG or through their Facebook page 30A Cats. Also, be on the lookout for the GO FUND ME campaign being set up to raise money to advance the 30A Cat mission through the purchase of a mobile spay/neuter clinic to offer a low-cost spay/neuter solution for Walton County Residents and help supplement existing services in Bay County.
