A large crowd turned out for Thursday’s Hamburger Lunch benefit for the CARES Animal Shelter in Clarksdale.
The non-profit shelter, located at 1645 Desoto Ave., provides a safe haven for the community's animals as they currently have a less than 3 percent euthanasia rate.
In 2017, the shelter took in over 1,000 dogs and cats, up from 250 in 2015. Since their inception in 2015, the shelter has transported or adopted out over 1,600 dogs and cats.
The goal of the Clarksdale Animal Rescue Effort and Shelter is to increase awareness of pet availability, and inspire a sense of pride and responsibility for Clarksdale's shelter pet population.
In October 2017, CARES moved into a new home, which was 14 times the size of its previous location.
In addition to holding all of the shelter’s animals indoors, the space boasts two adoption rooms, a kids' education room, a volunteer center, a dedicated medical room, and space for community programs.
Thanks to a grant from PetSmart, the shelter is currently offering 500 free spay and neuters for those who cannot afford veterinary care.
Abe’s Barbecue, Yazoo Pass, Yarber Produce, Sonic Drive-In and Stone Pony donated goods for Thursday’s fundraiser with shelter volunteers donating their time and labor.
