Her name is Amanda and her rescue is called Joyner’s Furr-eedom Rescue. Amanda recently received a Pennsylvania stray-hold license, which means she is legally allowed to take in stray animals.
A lot of people still don’t realize that Delaware County has no SPCA, and that Providence Animal Center, a well-run organization, is not a stray intake facility — they only accept owner surrenders. Meanwhile, the stray animal over-population crisis continues to grow, especially in Chester City.
Right now, Amanda is willing to step up and help Chester City at no charge and be part of the solution. But this cannot happen without leadership, cooperation, and elected officials willing to work with the people trying to make a difference.
Mayor Stefan Roots, I don’t know if you remember, but over a year ago I met you while you were sitting your SUV (if I remember correctly) in the parking lot of Chester City Hall. I noticed you were in the Mayor’s assigned parking spot so I assumed you were the mayor. I introduced myself and explained our mission. I handed you a flyer about our mission. You said you would pass it on to the right person. I was appreciative. But I never heard anything more; not from you, not from anyone in Chester.
I truly hoped you would become part of the solution. Instead, the situation has continued to get worse.
Children are at risk. Adults are at risk. Animals are suffering every single day. Police officers are being put in heartbreaking situations where they are forced to shoot dogs. That should never be considered normal. There’s also talk about dog fighting rings - hearsay but not far-fetched. Are you aware?
After having a good conversation with Amanda, we came to the conclusion that we want to work together — along with Jules Clevenger and anyone else willing to help — to build an Animal Welfare Center for Delaware County. The pieces are starting to come together, but one major thing is still missing: a building.
Amanda is offering help. The question is whether Mayor Roots and elected leaders are finally willing to accept it before this crisis grows even worse.
