Animal Society exceeds $350,000 to set event record

5,000 people raised over $350,000 at Charleston Animal Society’s 16^th Annual Celebrity Chili Cook-off & Oyster Roast, presented by The Post and Courier last Saturday.  Proceeds from the event will benefit Toby’s Fund, which saves thousands of animals through lifesaving medical and behavioral treatment.

“Each year, Charleston Animal Society spends $750,000 on the medical treatment of injured and ill homeless animals, many of whom have been hit by cars, afflicted with disease, shot by people or victimized by other forms of abuse,” stated Joe Elmore, CEO of Charleston Animal Society.  “The Chili Cook-off is critical in raising money for Toby’s Fund so that we can save these helpless animals.”

“This was an especially challenging year for all in Charleston. The support of our sponsors, participation from the chili teams, as well as the attendees on Saturday, shows how much our community cares for suffering animals who depend on Charleston Animal Society for critical treatment, relief and assistance in recovering and finding homes. I’m so proud to be part of a community that shares a common goal.” said Chili Cook-off Chairwoman and Charleston Animal Society Board Member, Gerri Greenwood.

The day was highlighted by an appearance of Caitlyn the dog and the launch of an exciting life-saving movement by Charleston Animal Society, No Kill, No Harm, No More!, based on the Society’s success in making Charleston County the first No Kill Community in the Southeast.

Here is how the awards broke down out on the cooking field:

About Charleston Animal Society

At 141 years old, Charleston Animal Society is the oldest animal organization in South Carolina and one of the oldest in the Nation. It is also South Carolina’s leader in adoptions, spay/neuter procedures, free roaming cat services and research projects and has a nationally recognized Veterinary Science Initiative. For the third year in a row, Charleston Animal Society is South Carolina’s most honored charity.