H.O.P.E Adoption Center Reopens Doors by Appointment Only

WILTON — The H.O.P.E. Adoption and Education Center, located in the Wilton Mall, is open by appointment only and operating under all mandated COVID-19 safety measures and protocols per NYS Department of Health. The center originally opened on Jan. 26, 2020, and occupies almost 3,000 sq. ft. next to the former Sears store, which is soon to be Saratoga Hospital offices.

Adoptable cats, in high demand during this time of social isolation, are once again available at the H.O.P.E. Adoption and Education Center. With COVID restrictions resulting in many people having more time at home and fewer social activities, people have realized that this a perfect time to adopt. Unfortunately, their access to adoptable animals has also been limited. Most shelters and rescues were closed at some point, though H.O.P.E. kept the purpose of the center alive through dog and cat adoptions, handled with limited contact and without the benefit of public adoption events or access to the center. The re-opening of the center, by appointment, gets them a step closer to easy, open access for want-to-be adopters. Even this limited re-opening, will allow H.O.P.E. to better serve those looking to adopt. H.O.P.E. will also continue to produce virtual events.

Wendy Mongillo, founder and executive director of H.O.P.E. said, “having the center open by appointment is progress and we are so excited to have cats back at the center. Even though we only opened less than two months before COVID concerns closed the Mall, we were already having a significant impact on the community. We adopted-out hundreds of cats and dogs as well as beginning to establish the center as a go-to event space, with programs like dog adoption events, training workshops, cat yoga, and pet-related art exhibits. We will work toward a return to full operations as conditions safely permit.”

Programs are currently being redesigned and offered via Zoom. More educational and social programs are also being created for virtual participation until the center can open safely once again. 

“It’s important for people to know that cat and dog Fosters are still crucial to our mission. Donor support is also critical whether it comes through fundraising events or direct donations,” reminded H.O.P.E. President, Kristina Kline.

For appointments to meet adoptable pets, adoption information, volunteer and donation opportunities, call 518-450-7013 or visit
hopeanimalrescue.org or Facebook.com/PetsHope.