By Athena Varde, local student writer

It’s no secret that we all love to talk about how much we love our pets, right? But what about the animals that don’t have anyone to speak for them, no owner? Throughout our 19-mile island, there are many thousands of animals without homes. It’s a crisis in plain sight.

Stimami Sterilisami

Founded by Bucuti Beach Resort in 2018, the Stimami Sterilisami Foundation is a leading force in tackling Aruba’s pet overpopulation crisis. The foundation’s mission is simple but impactful: reduce Aruba’s pet overpopulation by subsidizing the cost of spaying and neutering pets for individual owners and rescue organizations. In a significant recent development, they now cover 100% of the expenses for pets in some of Aruba’s low-income areas. Although Stimami Sterilisami doesn’t perform these procedures themselves, they ensure the surgeries happen by funding and subsidizing them for all rescue organizations across the island.

Earlier this month, Stimami Sterilisami hosted its third annual Sidewalk Sale, bringing the community together for a great cause. Local businesses and other organizations donated items to be sold, with all proceeds supporting the foundation’s spay and neuter campaign. The event wasn’t just about fundraising—it was about raising awareness too. Partner organizations like Paws United and Animal Welfare Alliance Aruba participated, with adoptable pets on display at the venue, making it a perfect opportunity for people to adopt a new furry family member. Events like these highlight the urgent need for action and support.

A Better Future for Aruba’s Animals

In a major step forward, the Aruban government recently passed a law mandating the sterilization of all pets. What does this mean for the island? Quite simply, it means that the population of stray dogs and cats will begin to decline, bringing relief to both the animals and the community. This legislation, combined with the efforts of foundations like Stimami Sterilisami, gives us hope for a future where every pet has a home.