Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut Supports Medical Care for Animals Rescued from Old Lyme Hoarding Case

In response to injuries sustained by 27 animals rescued from a recent hoarding case in Old Lyme, the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut (CFECT) has announced an emergency grant of up to $10,000 to support ongoing veterinary care, rehabilitation, and adoption efforts for the rescued animals.

Upon learning of the incident, the Foundation reached out to Old Lyme Animal Control Officer Lynn Philemon to offer urgent assistance. CFECT is matching dollar-for-dollar the $4,500 raised by community members during an October 4 fundraiser and will continue to provide support as needed to help cover veterinary treatment and recovery costs.

“When we heard what had happened, we reached out right away to offer our support,” said Maryam Elahi, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut. “The full cost of this harm isn’t yet known, but we stand side-by-side with the community to do what’s right as the details continue to unfold. Our donors and Board have long prioritized the well-being of animals and the health of our shared environment. We are matching local fundraising efforts to ensure that every animal rescued from this heartbreaking situation receives the medical attention, care, and compassion they deserve — and ultimately finds a safe, loving home.”

The 20 dogs, along with several birds and chinchillas, were rescued in July from unsafe living conditions and are now under veterinary care or in foster homes awaiting adoption. The animals continue to require extensive medical treatment — from tumor removals and dental surgeries to spay, neuter, and heart evaluations — with total costs estimated at more than $20,000.

The Foundation’s support for this effort builds on its longstanding commitment to animal welfare and environmental stewardship across its 42-town region. Since 2015, CFECT has advanced the work of environmentally focused and animal-protective nonprofits, including through dedicated funds such as the Peter Grayson Letz Fund for Animals and the Environment and the Mary Janvrin and Natalie Janvrin Wiggins Fund for Birds, Other Animals and Nature. These funds have enabled the Foundation to invest in conservation, rescue, education, and policy reform throughout Eastern Connecticut.

“Our role is to listen, respond, and mobilize resources when our community — including its most vulnerable beings — needs us most,” Elahi added. “This grant reflects the compassion of our donors and our shared belief that caring for animals is essential to building healthy, resilient communities.”

So far in 2025, the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut has provided more than $86,000 in grants specifically dedicated to animal welfare, supporting veterinary care, adoption services, spay and neuter programs, and community-based rescue initiatives across the region.

The Foundation continues to partner with municipalities and nonprofit organizations to ensure the well-being of both people and animals through responsive grantmaking and donor-advised support. 

About the Community Foundation

Serving 42 towns and comprised of over 630 charitable funds, the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut’s vision is a healthy, thriving, sustainable Eastern Connecticut with greater equity for all. We collaborate with partners to put philanthropy into action to address the needs, rights and interests of our community in Eastern Connecticut. The Community Foundation manages a permanent community endowment and has awarded over $110 million in grants and scholarships to nonprofits and students since its founding in 1983. To learn more, visit cfect.org.