About Us

Here at Hidden Gem Cat Rescue we are devoted to the cats, we pay for all of the supplies the kitties need but we can do even more when we receive donations from amazing people like you. We ask for a bit of patience when contacting us or trying to schedule meetings as we do have jobs to support the rescue.

We are a completely foster-based rescue (we have no physical facility), and we COMPLETELY rely on our foster parents for the housing of our kitties! This is so no large number of cats are lumped together in one house. This is to give the cats room to run, stretch and move, as well as to follow city animal rules until hopefully one day we can have our own physical location for these animals that depend on us.

We all want what is best for the cats and kittens and will do everything in our power to ensure they find their true forever homes!

Since we are a Foster Based Rescue, we do not have a facility. Adoptions, Surrenders, and Donation Drops must be coordinated ahead of time. We are a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit rescue!

We aim to expand to have a physical location one day so we can help even more cats in need and continue to work to end overpopulation and to end pet suffering. We want to be involved in our community and we want our community to be involved with us!

Our Mission Statement

Located just north of Seattle, Hidden Gem Cat Rescue is dedicated to rescuing cats and kittens in the surrounding communities. Through crucial spay and neuter procedures we aim to reduce cat overpopulation and suffering.

We are a foster based rescue striving for better animal welfare while making a difference in our community through adoptions, education, resources and programs for low-income pet owners.

Meet Our Board & Team

Dedicated to the wellbeing of felines in our community!

Our team at Hidden Gem Cat Rescue is dedicated to providing assistance to cats in need. Most, if not all of us, have our own feline companions and have worked with animals in various capacities. Hidden Gem Cat Rescue operates solely with the help of volunteers, and board positions are not compensated.

Executive Director

Samuel Winchester

Animals have been my passion my whole life. I have always known that I need to do something to help animals in need. I started rescuing cats independently when I was just a teenager, 15 years old actually and I am 26 now!

I have worked at a cat rescue as a caregiver previously, administering oral medications, subcutaneous fluids, injections, and dipping cats for ringworm among other things. I am also a Veterinary Assistant and am working towards becoming a certified Master Herpetologist (Working with Reptiles) my work and passion does not stop at just the fuzzy animals! Even the scaled babies need love and compassion.

I have worked with Feral Cats as well, extensive trap/neuter/release (TNR) work out in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania made me understand just what some of these poor animals go through that come out of feral colonies.

My passion for rescue hasn't stopped and I don't think it ever will! My belief is that we must all work together to better the lives of those around us.

Secretary of the Board

Bea Gritz

I come from a big southern family that has had a passion for raising animals in many different capacities. From cows, horses, ducks, chickens and pigs to cats, dogs, rats and rabbits I’ve been around them all! I spent my younger years in 4H, my high school years in FFA and have worked in and out of veterinary medicine since 2003 and most recently in administration for BluePearl Pet Hospital.

In addition to veterinary medicine, I have also been an active volunteer in many different organizations. Previously a union representative for Communication Workers of America, a volunteer for Seattle Men’s Chorus, and now with Hidden Gem Cat Rescue.

Pet parent to two adorable canines including one rescue pitbull and currently foster mom to two very sweet 7 year old cats, I am looking forward to bringing my passions for animal rescue and volunteer work to the Board of Directors!

Board Director

Caressa Weber

"It's a small thing to help one animal, but to that one animal it's a big thing." -Gene Baur

Animals have always held a special place in my heart no matter their size or species. As a child growing up in Florida I would bring home all different kinds of animals to my mom who would help me care for them. My passion for these wonderful beings extends into continuous research on the care, dietary restrictions, behavioral habits, and husbandry needs of all types of creatures including our surrounding wildlife. My goal is to one day pursue my dream of wildlife rehabilitation.

At present, my family and I share our home with six feline friends, a loyal canine companion, a few exotic pets, and two freshwater aquariums. While I still currently work part-time in Education and with those with special needs, my heart has led me to dedicate a portion of my free time to volunteer at Hidden Gem Cat Rescue. This work is especially close to my heart, as it began when I found two orphaned kittens just a few days old near my home. Experiencing the satisfaction of nurturing them to health and happiness inspired me to become more involved in animal rescue.

Medical Coordinator

Allen Winchester

While my passion lies in wildlife rescue, I have always had a soft spot for our furry friends! I am currently a Veterinary Assistant working at a local hospital in Millcreek.

As I pursue my Veterinary Technician license, I am fully dedicated and committed to achieving my ultimate goal of becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM). My love and appreciation for animals are the driving force behind my desire to help them in every way possible. I believe that every animal deserves the best care, attention, and love, and I am determined to make that a reality. I am excited about the opportunity to expand my knowledge and skills, so I can provide the highest level of care to animals in need.

I have experience in Veterinary Dentistry and find Surgery to be a passion of mine!

About Us​

Our Mission Statement

Meet Our Board & Team

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About Us