Bakersfield donates van to support trap-neuter-return program

An unidentified speaker said the city donated a van to augment the group’s trap‑neuter‑return program, allowing volunteers to transport multiple traps and deliver feral and free‑roaming cats to Critters Without Litters for sterilization, vaccination and ear‑tipping before returning them to their colonies.

The donation, the speaker said, will let the organization work more effectively with residents to target larger cat colonies that previously required volunteers to use personal vehicles to move animals and equipment. "The city was incredibly generous in donating this van to us so that we can augment our trap‑neuter‑return program," the speaker said, adding that the benefit is intended for the public.

Organizers described the operational challenge: volunteers were relying on their own cars to carry multiple traps and to transport animals for surgery. Another unidentified speaker said that after exploring fundraising and other options, staff reached out to fleet and were later told a van might be available that could meet the group's needs.

Representatives said transported cats would be taken to Critters Without Litters for sterilization, vaccination and ear‑tipping and then returned to the community so colonies stop producing additional kittens. The speakers did not specify how many cats or colonies would be served, how long the van will be available, or whether the city placed any conditions on its use.

Speakers framed the donation as part of a strengthening partnership with the city of Bakersfield to address cat overpopulation. "We are incredibly grateful for our relationship with the city," one speaker said, noting that the relationship has improved over the years as they have worked together on the issue.

Organizers said next steps include putting the vehicle into service for trapping and transport; no vote or formal motion was recorded in the transcript.