Late one October day, staff at the Humane Society of Greater Niagara in St. Catherines, Ontario, stepped outside to check the recycling — and stumbled upon something heartbreaking. Near the dumpsters sat three taped-up boxes and a small crate. Inside them were 14 frightened cats, left alone in the cold with no way to escape.
“It was a real shock for our team,” senior manager of operations Cortnie Welychka told The Dodo. “We’re here to help 24/7, and we urge anyone who’s struggling to reach out. Finding animals sealed inside boxes in our garbage area was incredibly disheartening.”
The shock didn’t last long. Staff quickly carried the boxes inside and gently cut through the tape, unsure of what they were about to uncover.
“[We didn’t know] what we were about to find,” Welychka said. “Thankfully, once we had eyes on everyone, we could see that none of the cats were in immediate distress.”
Relief washed over them when they realized the cats were scared, but not in immediate medical distress.
A warm, safe space was prepared, and everyone expected the crisis to be over. But the next morning, rescuers found four more boxes — each with a cat inside.
Again, the team rushed to help, choosing compassion over frustration.
“While it can be emotionally draining, we focus on the positives: The cats are now safe and have a chance at a better life,” Welychka said. “Seeing them begin to thrive keeps us grounded in our mission.”
In the weeks ahead, staff will continue caring for every cat. Many of the younger and more social ones have already been adopted, while others are settling into foster homes where they’ll stay until they’re ready for their forever families.
Rescuers hope that people who are struggling know they never have to abandon an animal.
“For anyone having a hard time caring for their pets, there’s zero judgment — we are always here,” Welychka said. “Life changes quickly, and sometimes people just need support. Reaching out early can make all the difference.”
Though their story began in darkness, these cats are now safe, loved and heading toward brighter futures — thanks to the team who refused to give up on them.
To support animals like these, consider donating to the Humane Society of Greater Niagara.
