Oaken Acres expands aid to wildlife thanks to $12,000 grant

SYCAMORE – Oaken Acres Wildlife Center in Sycamore will be able to help more animals than ever heading into the new year.

According to a news release, the DeKalb County Community Foundation has granted Oaken Acres wildlife center $12,000. The money will be used to buy much-needed equipment, such as a commercial washing machine and dryer, a refrigerator, a professional table for animal exams, and a portable anesthesia machine, for the wildlife center.

Kathy Stelford, Oaken Acres founder and executive director, said the grant money will be instrumental in aiding the more than 900 orphaned and injured animals the organization serves, a significantly larger number than in past years.

According to the release, Oaken Acres is taking care of more critical animal patients every year, and that requires specialized care and a long recovery time.

The anesthesia machine will be the key to treating scared animals, and the other equipment will allow the wildlife center to operate more efficiently.

Founded in 1984, Oaken Acres,
12140 Aldrich Road in Sycamore, is a wildlife refuge which includes conservation acreage, woodlands, a riparian habitat and natural grasslands. The organization also accepts donations through their website.