Support QCA Animal Shelters This Giving Season

MILAN, Ill. – Patti McRae, Executive Director of Quad City Animal Welfare Center, introduced QCL viewers to Ash, a three-month-old, neutered male kitten. Ash is described as very sweet and has been in a foster environment, which means he is fully ready to find a forever, loving home.

Supporting local animal shelters can be a meaningful way to make a difference, especially during the holiday season. McRae emphasizes that the holidays are an ideal time to give back by donating supplies, making a year-end financial gift, volunteering time, adopting or fostering an animal, or simply helping spread the word about the shelter’s programs.

Every act of kindness helps shelters care for homeless animals and provide lifesaving services to the community. Year-end donations play a crucial role in ensuring that shelters can continue their vital work. These gifts help organizations finish the year strong and prepare for the busy months ahead.

Shelters like QCAWC rely entirely on community support because they are funded through donations and service fees. These contributions allow for the continuation of essential programs such as low-cost spay and neuter services, vaccinations, humane education, and quality care for the animals.

Besides monetary donations, there are several other items that shelters find most helpful. Wish list items make a big difference. The Milan and Moline Hy Vee stores both have wish list trees where shoppers can take an ornament from the tree, purchase the listed item, and leave it in the Quad City Animal Welfare Center donation cart.

Some of the most needed items include pet food, cleaning supplies, enrichment toys, treats, paper towels, and cat litter. These supplies help the team care for the animals every single day.

For those who cannot adopt right now, there are still many ways to support homeless pets. Fostering is a wonderful option. A short-term foster home provides comfort, socialization, and relief for animals who need a break from the shelter.

Volunteering is another great way to help, whether that means walking dogs, socializing cats, or assisting with events. Even sharing the shelter’s posts on social media can help animals find homes faster.

Annual gifts also play a significant role in supporting future programs and the long-term mission of the shelter. These contributions allow shelters to plan ahead, ensuring they have the funding needed to provide lifesaving work, maintain facilities, and expand community programs such as their mobile clinic and education initiatives.

How to make a year-end gift to Quad City Animal Welfare Center
The easiest way is to visit the shelter’s website and donate online. It only takes a moment, but the impact is immediate. People can also stop by the Adoption and Education Center or the clinic to drop off donations.

2026 QCAWC Pet Calendars are available
The shelter holds an online photo contest each year to choose the photos featured in the annual calendar. “Katie” the Golden Retriever received the most votes from supporters, making her the cover star of the 2026 calendar.

Those interested can click here to learn how to get a calendar, which helps raise much-needed funding for the non-profit. A calendar can be ordered to be shipped for $15. There is also a list of 10 businesses or vet centers where the calendars are available on a walk-in basis for $10 (including both QCAWC facilities in Milan).

How to contact Quad City Animal Welfare Center
QCAWC Adoption & Education Center is located at 724 West Second Avenue, Milan, IL. Additional information about available animals, the adoption process, and upcoming fundraisers and special events can be found at https://qcawc.org/ or by calling 309-787-6830.