A kitten named Freckles, who was diagnosed with Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP), and a desire to help more at-risk cats and dogs find forever homes, were the catalyst that ignited Athena Reizakis to start Freckles Foundation & Animal Rescue. While our main mission is to place animals in need in loving homes, we also place a special emphasis on the “underdog.” We will not let age or a medical diagnosis, such as FIP or heartworm, be a barrier in giving that animal the chance at the life they so deserve.

Freckles Foundation & Animal Rescue, founded in December of 2023, is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. We are a foster-based rescue with a volunteer network spanning across Maryland, DC, and Virginia. We are committed to creating awareness within the communities we serve and working towards the best interest of the animals in our care. It is not just about finding homes for pets in need but finding a home that is right for them.

Freckles Foundation works with shelters, other rescue groups, community organizations, and individuals to identify cats and dogs in need of rescue. Once in our care we provide these animals with necessary veterinary care and a loving, nurturing foster home until they are adopted. Cats and dogs receive vaccinations, preventatives, and spay/neuter (if age appropriate) prior to adoption. Our rescues are cared for in our network of volunteer foster homes and provided with food, shelter, socialization, training, and other necessary care while awaiting adoption.

We are funded solely by donations and adoption fees. We are 100% volunteer-based currently.