By Holly Martin
Opening your heart and your home to a furry friend in need is one of the best feelings in the world. That’s what Kimmy’s Safe Haven Rescue has been doing since 2016. Located in Egg Harbor City, Kimmy’s Safe Haven Rescue rescues and cares for all types of animals like cats, dogs, pigs, rabbits, goats, chickens, and even a turkey! The rescue is a no-kill safe haven finding homes for cats and dogs that have been neglected, abused, or abandoned locally. The founder Kim Brown financed the building of the animal sanctuary out of pocket and has been dedicated to giving these animals second chances and finding them forever homes.
Kim Brown found her love of working with animals while fostering and volunteering with rescues. She fell in love with and adopted her first two fosters, and continued to foster others. In 2015, Brown lost her younger brother, Matthew, to suicide. He had bipolar disorder, and his loss was one of the hardest things she went through. Helping animals who were suffering helped Kim cope with the loss of her brother. “I needed them just as much as they needed me,” says Brown. “They have no voice.” Brown works hard to share their stories and give them a second chance at a better life. Kimmy’s Safe Haven works with abused, neglected, abandoned, and feral animals.
Kim and her husband Shane also adopted their two children from a neglected family in 2006. The children filled a void in her life after having miscarried two of her own. They completed her family and life. Her children are also animal lovers and help out with the rescue and care of the animals.
Kimmy’s Safe Haven Rescue has a large farm with animals running up to greet you. Chickens and pigs enjoy running around and playing with their toys, and the dogs play in the kiddie pool to stay cool. Cats and a large bunny relax in a cool room, enjoying their food and the breeze from the fan. Brown and her family work hard to ensure every animal is cared for, loved, and spoiled with toys.
The rescue is becoming more and more full as Brown is trying to find homes for many cats and dogs. “Some have been with us a short time and others a long time due to health issues, special needs or just need extra love from being abandoned, strays, or born feral,” Brown explains. “But we keep them, get them to a foster home or a forever home. No matter how long it takes. We make sure they find a home.” Many of these animals would not stand a chance without the rescue, and they all carry a special place in her heart.
They are volunteer-based and hold pet adoption events, fundraisers, and education to increase awareness of animals in need.
Kimmy’s Safe Haven needs your help! Volunteers, foster homes, forever homes, and donations are welcome at all times. The Safe Haven is funded 100% on donations.
For more information or to find ways to donate, please visit:
