Foster Army Animal Rescue (FAAR) isn't your typical animal shelter. The nonprofit has carved out a niche saving creatures that other organizations often can't accommodate: the ill, injured, elderly, and those with special needs.
"What first attracted me to volunteer for Foster Army ten years ago was their dedication to the animals. I have a passion for senior dogs and cats, and caring for these precious babies is an honor I will always cherish," said Christina DeHaro, a longtime volunteer who currently cares for Gambit, a senior Yorkshire terrier who remains surprisingly active despite his age.
What truly distinguishes FAAR is their commitment to rescuing beyond dogs and cats. Their "critters" program extends lifesaving efforts to rabbits, iguanas, tortoises and other exotic pets that rarely find champions in traditional rescue settings.
"Ten years ago, we realized that there was a major niche that needed to be filled in the animal rescue world: ill, injured, underage, senior and special-needs pets—the ones who need the most love and care," said Kimberlee Powell, co-founder and pet care manager. "We started Foster Army Animal Rescue with the goal of making a difference in these special lives."
Founded in 2015 with a small shop on Blaine Street, FAAR has since relocated to Magnolia Center and saved more than 1,130 animals. Unlike conventional shelters, all their rescues are placed in foster homes, providing personalized care until adoption.
The organization is preparing to open its third location to accommodate growing demand as they mark their 10th anniversary this month.
A cornerstone of their work is Operation: Spay & Neuter Riverside, a program offering free and reduced-cost sterilization for pets of Riverside residents who need financial assistance. Their next clinic is scheduled for June 16, with priority given to seniors, veterans, active-duty military and low-income residents.
Weekly adoption events at their thrift store provide socialization opportunities for even the shyest animals. Currently, three siblings—Beryl (black), Citrine (tortoiseshell) and Charisma (ginger)—who came to FAAR as bottle-fed kittens are preparing for adoption in mid-June after their spay/neuter procedures. County shelters typically lack the staff to maintain the intense feeding schedule required for such young animals.
(Ken Crawford)
"Now, a decade later, we are fulfilling our mission with the help of our amazing volunteers and supporters. We are grateful for the opportunity to give back to the community through pet rescue, our free microchip clinics, Operation: Spay & Neuter Riverside and our thrift store," Powell said.
To celebrate their decade milestone, FAAR is hosting a street fair on Saturday, May 31, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at their 6520 Magnolia Ave. location. The event will feature live bands, art vendors, collectibles, vintage clothing and a $2 stuff-a-bag clothing sale.
Special event pricing for animal adoptions will be available, though the organization emphasizes their careful matching process remains in place.
For more information on Foster Army Animal Rescue’s programs, visit www.fosterarmy.org.
