MeowSquad To Host Fundraiser In Lynbrook Oct. 20

Nonprofit cat rescue group MeowSquad is hosting its first ever ‘Halloween Spooktacular’ fundraiser to raise money for much needed resources for their rescue and Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) efforts.

The event will be taking place on Friday, Oct. 20, at 7 p.m., at Knights of Columbus, located at 78 Hempstead Ave. in Lynbrook.

The fundraiser will include a catered dinner, a live DJ, an open bar, a costume contest, raffles and a special performance by mentalist David Levitan.

Howard Beach resident Stephanie Castro founded MeowSquad NYC in 2019. It is a non- profit organization with the goal of reducing the large stray and feral cat population by using TNR techniques, as well as working with the community to find forever homes for cats that can be re-socialized, or relocate those who cannot into working safe environments. Since its founding, MeowSquad has helped to rescue more than 500 cats in Queens and New York City.

“We here at MeowSquad are thrilled to host our first-ever ‘Halloween Spooktacular’ fundraiser benefitting our rescue,” said Castro. “Fundraisers like these are crucial to our success – especially as the stray cat population continues to balloon in New York City. Let’s turn the spirit of Halloween into a night of hope for our feline friends. Your support at this event ensures that TNR and rescue efforts continue to thrive. It is my sincere hope the fundraiser will be a howling success for our community and our cats.”

The most humane and effective approach to managing the growing population of community cats is Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR). In TNR, entire colonies of community cats are trapped, sterilized, vaccinated, eartipped, and returned to their territory of origin. TNR halts reproduction and many of the nuisance behaviors associated with unneutered cats, such as yowling, fighting, and marking territory. The cats are healthier and free from the stresses of mating and motherhood.

As a nonprofit relying heavily on donations, MeowSquad’s ‘Halloween Spooktacular’ is made possible by the generosity of its supporters. Fundraiser attendees will have the chance to win a number of donated items during the raffle, including a 50-inch Samsung TV, dining vouchers, spa vouchers, a designer handbag, Apple air pods, a tarot card reader for a private event, and more.

“MeowSquad NYC embodies the spirit of compassion and dedication in our community. Their tireless efforts in feline rescue and TNR have made a significant impact on the lives of our four- legged friends – especially here in Queens,” said Council Member Joann Ariola. “I’m proud to have allocated $5,000 in support of their invaluable work. Wishing them a ‘Halloween Spooktacular’; fundraiser, filled with success and joy. Together, let’s continue to make New York City a better place for both its human and feline residents!”

Tickets for the fundraiser are now available to buy through Venmo (@Meowsquad), CashApp (@MeowsquadNYC), or PayPal (@MeowSquadNYC). For more information about the event and the work that MeowSquad do you can visit their website.