Oasis Diary - September 2002

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It is early September as I write at The Oasis Sanctuary. September 8 marks the two-year anniversary since the crazy week we transported 250 birds from Phoenix to their new home in Southeastern Arizona.

We have come a very long way during this time. The Oasis' new location has developed. The Sanctuary now has over 350 birds in permanent residence. The number of staff on site has grown to include three full-time and three part-time people. We still have our loyal crew working in Phoenix, running the office as well as the Foster Care/Intake Center. The Oasis has done major renovations on the existing buildings to create a far more comfortable environment for the birds to live in and for us to care for them. We have created a hospital/infirmary from a donated construction trailer. We are working on our first "free-flight" aviary - the prototype for things to come.

However, this year has been difficult economically. The country is slipping into an unstable recession. Here at the Oasis we have been hit with a double whammy: Donations are down while the need for our services is at an all-time high. There is a growing need to take in an ever-increasing number of birds at all the rescue facilities nationwide. Our statistics show that we at The Oasis are contacted regarding about 500 birds a year who are in danger of losing their current homes. In the last month alone the Oasis has spoken to people regarding over 30 - yes, thirty! - parrots in need of immediate help.

In some cases we can provide behavioral assistance to enable well-meaning people to keep their beloved birds in their homes. We DO NOT charge for this service.

In many other instances we can direct people to one of the many bona fide adoption programs we work with...but all too often they too are full or have lengthy waiting lists.

All too often the ONLY thing that stands between these intelligent creatures and homelessness or euthanasia is The Oasis. We currently have over 350 birds in permanent residence and approximately a dozen more awaiting the opportunity to find sanctuary here.

The birds at The Oasis Sanctuary need your help TODAY. The coins in your pockets and your penny jars, the dollars saved for a new toy for the cage already over-flowing with toys...these small amounts that seem so little to you will add up and make a HUGE difference to the birds at the Oasis.

We know you love the birds. We know you can help. Before you get wrapped up in the gift-giving craze of the holidays, please take the time to help the ones too often forgotten.

Call our Business Office at (602) 863-1543 to make a donation with your credit card today. Or you can mail your check to The Oasis Sanctuary, P.O. Box 30502, Phoenix, AZ 85046. If you would like to speak directly with me, please call the site location at (520) 212-4737. Best time is 3-6 PM AZ time.

The special birds at The Oasis thank you for caring.

Sybil Erden, Director

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