A Tri-City nonprofit has spayed and neutered 55,000 strays. They want to help more

Harvey is a talker.

The black cat gives small meows to get attention from people, but when he showed up at Prevent Homeless Pets, he was just another barn cat in a colony that needed help.

The Benton City nonprofit provides spay and neutering services for homeless pets for free, and at a reduced cost for people in need. It’s able to do that with the help of donations and grants.

The organization is in the middle of its annual Stitch-in-Time fundraiser, and Harvey is one to the 55,000 stray animals the group was able to help.

Harvey received some extra attention from Director Harriet Johnson, who was able to use her connections to find a foster home for him.

“We can’t do what we did for Harvey for every animal but spay and neuter is where it starts, I believe,” Johnson said. “Without our efforts together the tide becomes too difficult to turn.”

Since opening in 2009, the Benton City nonprofit clinic west of the Tri-Cities has spayed and neutered cats and dogs with the help of thousands of volunteer hours.

The organization relies on fees and grants, as well as donations, to continue providing services.

Until Jan. 20, all donations up to $50,000 will be matched.

Donations can be sent to Prevent Homeless Pets, 1000 Irma Lane, Benton City, WA 99320 or go to www.preventhomelesspets.org to make a PayPal donation.