Stock The Shelter 2019 was a donation drive that took place in February of 2019. After a hard 2018 that was filled with ringworm, van problems, etc. RRAR was financially drained. We tried to pinch pennies wherever we could. Using less litter, cutting out dog/cat treats, employees volunteering every day and working without pay, among other cost cutting ideas. We reached out to anyone we could, as we were in desperation mode. All the money in our bank account was gone, and we were running on fumes. It looked like a possible shutdown was a real possibility we had to start considering, if things didn't change soon. Our last effort was Stock The Shelter. We asked the community to donate any money or supplies they could spare if they were willing and able, and decided the best way to reach everyone quickly was through social media.

​

We made a 30-minute Facebook video explaining to everyone what exactly was going on, and explain the severity of our situation. We asked if people could donate if they were able, and to spread the word/share as much as possible. In the first 48 hours the post had been shared nearly 300 times, and near the end of February had been shared over 850 times! Over the course of the month the community came together donating food, supplies, cash/gift cards/checks, online donations through GoFundMe and PayPal, and countless other ways! There were multiple people and businesses who reached out and set up their own fundraisers with us as well. We were covered by the local Hibbing Tribune Newspaper, and KBJR6 news. Even the kids at the Greenhaven and Washington elementary schools had their own donation drives!

​

Thanks to the generous donations from kind-hearted people all across the Iron Range, and even further, STS 2019 turned into Save The Shelter 2019! In the month of February, in both monetary donations along with the value of food/supplies, we were able to raise over $30,000! We can't thank everyone enough for coming together for RRAR, and the animals will forever be grateful as well. Together we were able to save the shelter, and save the lives of countless current and future animals. It's safe to say STS 2019 was an absolute, blown completely out of the water success! We thank everyone for their support, and here's to a fantastic year!