Florida Animal Friend opens applications for 2026 grants to support free and low-cost spay/neuter services in Alachua County and statewide

Press release from Florida Animal Friend

ALACHUA COUNTY, Fla. – Florida Animal Friend, a non-profit organization dedicated to preventing pet overpopulation, has announced the opening of the 2026 grant application process. Worthy organizations can secure funding in Alachua County and statewide to provide the public with no-cost or low-cost spay and neuter services. 

Florida Animal Friend, which surpassed 20 years of animal advocacy in the state, last year awarded more than $750,000 to more than 25 organizations based on their applications, which are reviewed by the Florida Animal Friend grant review committee. Funds for the grants come from the statewide sale of the Florida Animal Friend specialty vehicle license plates with cute cat and dog images highlighting the spay and neuter message. 

In the competitive application process, organizations are weighed on criteria including an understanding of overpopulation issues, thorough communication, plan development, implementation, and whether the resources and talent needed to implement such planning are in place. 

Florida Animal Friend license plates are available through the Florida Department of Motor Vehicles. These funds increase the number of alteration surgeries, which greatly reduces pet overpopulation and ultimately saves the lives of homeless cats and dogs. Visit Application Help – Florida Animal Friend for more information about applying. 

Incorporated in 2005, Florida Animal Friend’s mission is to help save the lives of countless cats and dogs by supporting organizations that offer free or low-cost spay and neuter services across Florida. The organization strives to reduce pet overpopulation by increasing awareness of programs available to pet owners and homeless pets. For more, visit www.floridaanimalfriend.org.