Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries

Save the Chimps, Inc. Earns Accreditation and Becomes 100th Sanctuary Certified By the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries.

Fort Pierce, FL – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, has awarded GFAS Accreditation to Save the Chimps, Inc. in Fort Pierce, Florida as of May 24, 2012.

Accreditation means that Save the Chimps, Inc. meets the comprehensive definition of a true sanctuary and is providing humane and responsible care of the chimpanzees, meeting GFAS’ rigorous and peer-reviewed standards for operations, administration, and veterinary care which are confirmed by site visits. The accreditation status also provides a clear and trusted means for the public, donors, and government agencies to recognize Save the Chimps, Inc. as an exceptional sanctuary.

Established in 1997 by the late Dr. Carole Noon, Save the Chimps originated as a sanctuary for retired Air Force chimps. Today, Save the Chimps is home to 270 chimpanzees, most of whom were former research subjects at the Coulston Foundation in Alamogordo, New Mexico, a biomedical research laboratory. In December of 2011, the migration of these chimpanzees from New Mexico to Florida was completed. Now, these and other chimps live in compatible groups on separate three-acre islands in a safe environment where they receive fresh food and care, and can socialize and play.

“We are very pleased to announce the accreditation of Save the Chimps as our 100th GFAS sanctuary that has been accredited or verified,” said Jackie Bennett, Deputy Director – Great Apes, GFAS. “So many of these chimps lived for years in concrete cells, and now they can run freely on their islands, spending time with companions as they choose. Save the Chimps provides a true sanctuary in every sense of the word.”

“On behalf of the Save the Chimps organization I am overjoyed by the recognition by GFAS towards the commitment and dedication by everyone involved with Save the Chimps.” said Executive Director, Philip Flynn.

About Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries
Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the sole purpose of strengthening and supporting the work of animal sanctuaries worldwide. The goal of GFAS in working with and assisting sanctuaries is to ensure they are supported, honored, recognized and rewarded for meeting important criteria in providing care to the animals in residence. GFAS was founded in 2007 by animal protection leaders from a number of different organizations in response to virtually unchecked and often hidden exploitation of animals for human entertainment and financial profit. The GFAS Board of Directors guides the organization’s work in a collaborative manner. They represent top leadership from Born Free USA, The Humane Society of the United States, International Fund for Animal Welfare, American Anti-Vivisection Society, and National Anti-Vivisection Society. For additional information on GFAS, please visit www.sanctuaryfederation.org.