By Kate Bartlett
CLAWS (“Cats Lives Are Worth Saving”) has been helping cats in the Ellicottville area for over 15 years. Founders Melanie Pritchard, Betsy Peyser, Maria Barerra, and the late Teresa Mercer Wagner saw the need and decided to take action, and have helped hundreds of cats since its inception.
Melanie Pritchard has always loved animals, especially cats. “As long as I can remember, I’ve loved cats,” explains Melanie. She, along with her friends, noticed the need for cat care as they noticed several stray, feral cats in the area, and wanted to make a difference; CLAWS was founded.
CLAWS helps cats in various ways, whether through finding a home or getting the cats medical attention. The organization takes in stray cats and helps them find foster homes, in hopes of eventually being adopted. Melanie takes in several of the cats herself, along with the help of her friends, and nearby animal shelters, including Jen Stedman of Cats Knead, and Tim O’Leary of Almost Home Animal Shelter in Little Valley. CLAWS helps get cats medical attention, and getting them spayed or neutered. “I’ve made countless trips to the veterinarian’s office,” says Melanie. “We make every effort to get the cats what they need, even if we pay out of our own pockets.”
CLAWS is in the process of getting a tax-deductible status, but has operated solely on donations. “We are so grateful for everyone who has supported us over the years,” says Melanie. “We’ve been able to sustain thanks to the many kind donations we have received, and our little army of people.”
After the tornado in Great Valley this summer, CLAWS saw an influx of cats. “We were incredibly busy,” explains Melanie. “We were able to help over 30 cats and kittens after the tornado, which is incredible.” This summer was a record, helping over 70 cats altogether.
Currently, Melanie has 6 cats that she is helping to find a forever home. “My greatest joy is when a cat finds their home,” explains Melanie. “They all have a story of where they came from and where they go, and we’re glad we can play a part in their happy ending.”
Melanie emphasizes how thankful she is for the community support over the years. “Thank you to anyone and everyone who has helped us along the way over the past 15 years. We couldn’t have helped these animals without you!”
Anyone interested in helping can contact Melanie by email Pritchard.mela@gmail.com or call/text (716) 480-8409. “We graciously accept all forms of help. We’re always looking for volunteers to foster, adopt, and donations of supplies and/or funds are always appreciated.