First, thank you for caring for these cats for so many years. Seven years is a long commitment, and it’s clear these cats have been safe, loved, and cared for because of you.

I would begin by reaching out to local feral cat or Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) organizations in your area to discuss your options. These groups often know of local barn cat or working cat placement programs, foster networks, or other local resources that may not be widely advertised.

Unfortunately, finding placement for adult community or formerly feral cats can be very difficult right now, especially in large numbers, because shelters and rescue groups across the country are overwhelmed. However, because many of your cats are social and can be petted, some rescues may be willing to evaluate whether a few could transition into adoptive homes, barn cat programs, or sanctuary-style placements.

That said, my first choice — if possible — would actually be to see whether someone could continue caring for the cats where they already live. Community cats are deeply connected to their territory, and relocation can be stressful and risky for them. Sometimes a nearby neighbor, friend, relative, or even another local cat caregiver may be willing to take over feeding and monitoring responsibilities, especially if you help with food costs or veterinary care.

Even if the person does not live next door, it can still work. Many colony caregivers stop by once or twice daily to feed, provide fresh water, and monitor the cats. Some caregivers also set up feeding stations with storage bins for food, automatic feeders, insulated shelters, or outdoor water stations to make daily care easier. A local TNR organization may even know experienced colony caregivers in your area who could help or advise you.

If you do contact rescue organizations, I would explain:

– How many cats you have
– Which are socialized and can be handled
– Whether they are spayed/neutered and vaccinated
– Their approximate ages
– Whether any can live indoors
– Whether you are able to provide financial support or supplies during transition

You may also want to ask specifically about:

– Working cat or barn cat placement programs
– Foster-based rescue groups
– Sanctuary placement options
– Assistance with gradual rehoming rather than all at once

Contact local feral cat groups, local humane societies, local animal control, and cat-specific rescue groups in your area.

I wish I had an easy solution, but I do want you to know that what you’ve done for these cats matters greatly. Many would not have survived without your care.

They are all really sweet, and I can pet most of them.
Thanking you in advance for your prompt reply,
Lynne

I truly appreciate you taking the time to share this. Grant writing can feel overwhelming because so much of it isn’t intuitive — especially when navigating foundation expectations and unspoken guidelines. I’m so glad the book provided clarity and structure for you and your staff, and that it helped strengthen your applications. Hearing that it made the process smoother and more strategic for your team means a great deal. Thank you for the work you’re doing to help animals in your community.

Thank you so much for your thoughtful review. It means a great deal to know that the book feels accessible to both new and experienced grant writers. My goal was to break down the process in a way that removes intimidation and replaces it with clarity and confidence. I’m especially glad to hear it’s a resource you can return to again and again — that’s exactly how it was designed to be used. Thank you for the important work you do in animal welfare!