ASPCA Teams Up with Animal Care Centers of NYC and Pete & Thomas Foundation to Kick Off The Rescue Effect in New York City

August 1 officially kicked off The Rescue Effect campaign, our annual nationwide initiative designed to help more animals find loving homes. Hundreds of shelters and rescues across the country have joined The Rescue Effect, including long-time partner Animal Care Centers of NYC (ACC), who hosted one of the campaign’s first adoption events on August 1. ACC’s event was also supported by the Pete & Thomas Foundation, founded by three-time, Grammy Award-winning superstar and philanthropist Megan Thee Stallion, and helped 29 adoptable cats, dogs and rabbits find loving homes. 

The fee-waived adoption event was hosted by ACC at their Queens Animal Care Center in New York City. To support, the ASPCA provided a $10,000 grant to help cover adoption fees for multiple events throughout the campaign. The Pete & Thomas Foundation also supported the event with volunteers on-the-ground.  

Megan recently adopted Tyger, a dog who was originally in ACC's care before being adopted through one of the organization's rescue partners, which inspired her to get involved.  

“Adopting my dog Tyger has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life,” said Megan Thee Stallion. “It opened my eyes to how many incredible pets are just waiting for the right person or family to give them a loving home. Partnering with ACC and the ASPCA to help more animals find their forever homes is special to me, and I hope it inspires others to consider opening their hearts to a rescue pet." 

“This Rescue Effect adoption event is a wonderful reminder of what can happen when passionate partners come together for New York City’s animals,” said Risa Weinstock, President and CEO of Animal Care Centers of NYC. “We’re incredibly grateful to the ASPCA and the Pete and Thomas Foundation for helping us connect more deserving pets with loving families.” 

How You Can Join The Rescue Effect  

For those who were not able to attend the event on August 1, ACC will host additional fee-waived adoption events on August 23, September 12 and September 20. This summer, the ASPCA will also host Barks at the Boardwalk, a two-event series at the ASPCA Adoption Center focused on helping dogs find homes, on August 15 and August 23. Register now to find your new best friend!  

As part of The Rescue Effect campaign this year, the ASPCA is providing $2 million in grant funding to help 200 participating shelters waive adoption fees and support their operating costs across the country. To learn more about The Rescue Effect and how you can get involved, animal lovers nationwide can visit aspca.org/therescueeffect to find a participating shelter or rescue in their area.