Photo: Arthur Morris / Corbis Documentary / Getty Images
The Marine Mammal Stranding Center in Brigantine is expressing its heartfelt gratitude to donors this holiday season. The center, which was established in 1978 and is the only Federally-authorized animal hospital in the State of New Jersey, has a mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and release marine mammals and sea turtles.
This year, the MMSC faced an unprecedented number of whale strandings and deaths along the Jersey Shore, leading to a significant budget deficit. However, thanks to the generosity of donors on “Giving Tuesday,” the center raised more than $49,000, effectively erasing its budget deficit.
The director of the center expressed immense gratitude for the outpouring of support, attributing the successful fundraising to the community’s recognition of the center’s vital role in marine conservation. The funds raised will be instrumental in continuing the center’s mission and addressing the increasing number of marine mammal strandings.
The MMSC responds to calls for stranded whales, dolphins, seals, and sea turtles that wash ashore on New Jersey beaches. The center also places a high value on public education and provides identification pages for the seal, sea turtle, and cetacean species seen in New Jersey. They offer various volunteer opportunities and rely on generous donations from supporters.