Press release:

Community Animal Resource Education Society of Burien (CARES ) received official notice from the IRS on Sept. 10 that its application for 501 (c) 3 status was approved, retroactive to May 1, 2011, when the animal control organization began operations.

This 501 (c) 3 status allows past and future donors to CARES to deduct their contributions from their federal income tax. The designation also provides more opportunities for CARES to apply for and obtain government grants.

Further, CARES is now exempt from paying sales tax on its purchases of pet food and other supplies.
CARES director Debra George said she was elated after receiving the letter from the IRS. “This is an important document for us,” she said. “it allows us to continue to move forward in a positive direction.”

George also reported that the CARES first annual “Wags to Riches” rummage sale held Sept. 8 was a tremendous success. We want to thank the Burien community and volunteers for all their efforts and donations for our fundraiser which raised $2,000, she said. We are looking forward to our next fundraising event in the first quarter of next year.