Just Us Cat and Kitten Rescue nets $22K at 1776 Steakhouse event

Just Us Cat and Kitten Rescue held its annual fundraiser Oct. 30 at 1776 Steakhouse in the Midway Shopping Center north of Rehoboth Beach.

Over the course of six hours, 200 diners enjoyed an evening of food and drink while participating in a 50/50 and an auction of baskets and gift cards. A highlight of the evening was awarding prizes for raffles: a $1,000 Amazon gift card, two tickets to a private suite at an Eagles/Commanders game and a $3,000 trip to anywhere, courtesy of Frank Echols and Where 2 Next Travel.

Organizers extend thanks for the support of Tom Holmes and the 1776 staff, who have been supporters of Just Us for many years. Also appreciated are the 22 volunteers who worked the entire event, including Jim Schmidt from the Brandywine Valley SPCA and Bob Harrison, Just Us president, who works tirelessly to help the cats and kittens of Sussex County that are often forgotten. Schmidt helped with the raffle program and pulled all the winning numbers. Sharon Robertson and Harrison greeted and seated all 200 guests. Volunteers sold raffle, auction and 50/50 tickets all evening long in addition to helping keep the evening on schedule and attendees engaged. Along with Schmidt, Magic Jack Noel helped emcee the event. Special guests in attendance were the original founders of Just Us, Pat Riordan and Kathy Askew.

Thanks to the generous support of individuals and businesses who donated items for auction, those who purchased raffle tickets both at the event and before, 50/50 and auction tickets and Just Us merchandise, the fundraiser brought in more than $22,000. Many supporters donated without a purchase as well. All funds will be used to continue to support the cats and kittens of Sussex County with the assistance of BVSPCA.

Through September 2025, Just Us has funded 748 spays/neuters, facilitated the adoption of 466 cats and kittens, and provided services for 450 pets at low-cost vaccination clinics. Hundreds of bags of cat food have been distributed to those in need and those who feed colonies. More than 250 cats have been trapped through a new trapper program, with most being neutered and released.

Just Us is a 501c3 nonprofit, EIN #87-0779615. Tax-deductible contributions may be sent to Just Us, PO Box 32, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971.