New Beginnings Animal Rescue Seeks 'Forever Home' in Berkley

Sometimes it takes a little longer to find a "forever home" than expected.

But New Beginnings Animal Rescue president Lisa Hill is not discouraged. And, after a slew of fund-raising events, the group still hopes to make that home in Berkley.

In August, .

"(We) unfortunately did not get the building on 11 mile," Hill said. "We are all very  broken-hearted about it. Another potential buyer was looking at the building at the same time as we were and the seller went with them instead. But I believe everything happens for a reason."

A comment on a story drew comment from volunteer and vice president Jennifer Fritz.

"We are looking again for another building that will suit our needs in Berkley," Fritz wrote.

The shelter would have provided space for adoptable cats and dogs, as well as supplies for the nonprofit organization's Pet Food Pantry program, which assists owners who otherwise may have to surrender their animals. The group is volunteer-based and supported by donations.

"We have the funds set aside to buy a place and continue to fundraise to
support our animals and the pet food pantry," Hill said, adding that "the NBAR team has had a crazy last six weeks" with adoption events three weekends a month and other events.

The group also recently held its at .

Now, Hill said, "the building hunt will continue."

She said the group is only looking in Berkley.

"We have had so much love and support for the community and local businesses that we won't be looking anywhere else," Hill said, adding that "Berkley is its third largest city assisted by the food pantry" and moving out of the city would make it harder for participants to get food.

"It may take time to find the ideal place but I’m willing to wait," she said.

For now, Hill said the animals are staying in foster homes and, on occasion, with volunteers. The group has 26 cats in foster care, some with special needs. 

How to help

New Beginnings has put up a giving tree at the where participants can donate cash or items on the Pet Food Pantry's wish-list. The clinic will hang an ornament on the tree for every entry and donations will be used to provide food for the pantry.

The animal clinic will host the giving tree throughout the season, and ‎look for donation boxes around town at 22 local businesses from Dec. 6-8, as part of the "12 Days of Giving" campaign promoted by online magazine Berkley Live. Donate pet food or kitty litter during these dates and the donations also will go to the food bank.

NBAR was formed Nov. 9, 2010, to provide temporary homes for homeless animals in Oakland County. The group works to place animals into loving homes and provides supplies to those in need.

Anyone in need of help from the pantry is asked to call 248-755-1923 and leave a clear voicemail containing the reason for calling, first and last name, and phone number.