Erin Coulehan
Photo courtesy of
The El Paso Community Foundation
El Paso is known for its warm community spirit and deep-rooted love for animals. However, in recent years, the city has been facing a growing crisis in animal welfare. With shelters overflowing and dedicated volunteers stretched to their limits, the El Paso Community Foundation has stepped up to make a difference through its Borderland Rescue Fund.
For years, the foundation has supported local animal welfare initiatives, including the Borderland Animal Welfare Collaborative, which brings together over 20 rescues, shelters, and municipalities to tackle issues collectively. But with shelters and other organizations now exceeding capacity and financial pressures mounting, it became clear that more had to be done.
“Recently, we noticed El Paso and the surrounding areas going through a bit of a crisis in the animal welfare space, prompting us to step up our efforts,” says Tess Passero, Program Officer at the El Paso Community Foundation. “We saw the dedication and all the hard work so many El Paso area organizations, volunteers, and caring individuals are doing as they try to manage the overwhelming influx of animals in our shelters and rescues.”
To support these efforts, the Borderland Rescue Fund launched several key initiatives. One of them is a grant program, modeled after the foundation’s successful Classroom Fund, which supports educators. Recognizing that animal rescue employees and volunteers often spend their own money to care for animals in need, the program aims to provide up to 20 organizations with $1,500 each in essential supplies.
“We recognize that staff and volunteers at welfare organizations often come out of pocket to care for animals in need, especially when budgets are tight and organizations are over capacity,” Passero explains. “Our goal is to ease some of their burdens while also showing them that they are valued and supported.”
Another game-changing initiative is the public Pet Pantries. Many pet owners facing financial hardships are forced to make heartbreaking decisions about their beloved companions. The pet pantries, stocked with donated food and supplies, help keep pets in loving homes instead of being surrendered to shelters. Community support is crucial, and donations are always welcomed. In partnership with the City Council, Mayor, Animal Services, and local libraries, the program aims to expand from one location to 15, making assistance easily accessible to those in need.
“Many families with pets truly care for their furry friends but might be experiencing financial difficulties,” says Passero. “The pet pantries will help prevent animals from ending up in rescues and shelters while allowing pet owners to access food and supplies without stigma or shame.”
Medical emergencies pose another challenge. Every day, good Samaritans rescue sick or injured animals – both domesticated and wildlife – but often struggle with the cost of care. The Medical Reserve Fund is stepping in to bridge this gap, covering expenses until a rescue group can take over. This initiative ensures these animals receive the care they need without putting undue financial strain on the individuals who step up to help.
“Many good Samaritans are rescuing sick and injured animals and bringing them to emergency care facilities, but they often face high costs,” Passero says. “Our goal is to establish a medical reserve fund to assist these animals and their rescuers, ensuring they receive the care they need until a rescue organization can step in.”
Local rescues and shelters continue to battle overcrowding, limited budgets, and a need for more foster homes and volunteers. The community can make a difference by adopting, fostering, volunteering, or donating. Even spreading awareness on social media helps these organizations find loving homes for animals in need. Additionally, choosing adoption over purchasing pets is crucial, especially since there are no legal breeders in the area.
“El Pasoans should make adoption their only option,” Passero emphasizes. “Purchasing animals only exacerbates the challenges faced by these organizations.”
The Borderland Rescue Fund is about more than just immediate relief – it’s about building a sustainable future for El Paso’s animals. The foundation is working to expand initiatives, educate pet owners, and highlight the incredible work done by rescue groups. While the challenges won’t be solved overnight, the passion and dedication behind this effort are undeniable.
Adding to the momentum, Mayor Johnson recently made headlines with a generous gesture, donating his January salary to the Borderland Rescue Fund. His contribution directly supports the Pet Pantry initiative, helping secure supplies and expand locations. His act of kindness reflects a broader community effort to uplift local nonprofits and address pressing issues like animal welfare.
“We were honored when we found out that Mayor Johnson was donating his salary to the Borderland Rescue Fund,” says Passero. “It was inspiring to see how much he cares and his dedication to fulfilling his promises. We hope everyone recognizes his support of local non-profits and the important work we all do, not just in animal welfare, but in a number of areas in the community.”
