Ulster County animal rescue looking to raise $100K amid donation downturn

Staff report
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The Woodstock Farm Sanctuary gives a helping hand to animals who have suffered from neglect or injury.
The Woodstock Farm Sanctuary gives a helping hand to animals who have suffered from neglect or injury.

An Ulster County haven for rescued animals is asking for help from the community. The Woodstock Farm Sanctuary is looking to raise $100,000 in a weeklong fund-raiser ending June 27, in a campaign dubbed "Woodstock Giving Week."

In the years since the global pandemic, the nonprofit's donations have seen about a 20% reduction, the sanctuary said. The non-profit cares for about 400 animals in High Falls, including cows, pigs, chickens, turkeys, goats, rabbits and sheep, rescuing them from abandonment, hoarders, abuse and criminal elements like cockfighting.

"The animals at Woodstock Sanctuary have endured unimaginable hardships, but with the support of our local community, we provide them with a life filled with love, compassion, and freedom," said Executive Director Rachel McCrystal in a news release.

The farm sits on about 150 acres and has been in operation since 2004. It also hosts events like wine tastings, retreats and nature tours.

A sheep with a prosthetic leg grazes at the Woodstock Farm Sanctuary.
A sheep with a prosthetic leg grazes at the Woodstock Farm Sanctuary.

Anyone looking to help can go to WoodstockSanctuary.org or send donations to 2 Rescue Road, High Falls, NY 12440. Any amount donated during the drive will be matched, the sanctuary said.

“We only are able to do this work because of community support. And we need community support to meet our matching goal this week," McCrystal said.

This article originally appeared on Times Herald-Record: Woodstock animal rescuers look to community for donation help