ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (WFLA) — You may remember this animal rescue from when it was located at John’s Pass.
It was known as the Alligator Discovery Center, when it lost dozens of its animals during a devastating fire in July 2023 and relocated to a bank building.
The non-profit has changed its name to Tampa Bay Rescues and now has a brand-new location in St. Pete.
“This is a blessing in disguise. It’s been hard; it’s been a hard two years,” Tampa Bay Rescues Director Sonny Flynn said. “Our hard part right now is our economic impact because we have no visitors coming in.”
Flynn has also been facing a challenge as she lost her home due to the hurricanes.
“It’s been one heck of a rollercoaster,” she said. “I’m trying to stay positive for the volunteers that come in for the animals because they can sense it.”
Staff members have been making changes to their new building to make sure the animals are cared for properly.
“These are animals that were pet surrenders, so they’ve had human interaction since day one. They have to have constant human interaction,” Flynn said.
The non-profit organization has been encouraging the community to donate and visitors to come in and help with fundraising.
Tampa Bay Rescues’ Grand Opening Fundraiser will be held Friday, Nov. 1 from 5:30 – 9 p.m. at 4703 Park St N. in St. Pete.
There will be light bites, beer and wine for those who donate $10.