I n the far West Valley lives a cat that’s perhaps the only C-level pet in the Valley, and he’s making a big difference in the lives of people in need. Frank the Cat appeared out of the blue one day on the campus of New Life Center’s domestic violence shelter. He was a stray with an unknown origin story who just FRANK THE CAT BRINGS HAPPINESS TO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SURVIVORS AT NEW LIFE CENTER BY TOM EVANS happened to stumble across what would become a new home for him. Frank was a little worse for wear, and he’s definitely not a show cat. His coat is scruffy on a good day, he has a noticeable overbite, and his eyes tend to be a bit on the goopy side. A PURR-Fect Fit Photos by Scott Foust | 6 | FURRY FRIENDS 2025 COVER STORY

Frank’s story, in some ways, mirrors the journey of many who come to New Life Center. Like Frank, who arrived at the shelter seeking refuge, individuals and families arrive here in need of a safe haven where they can find support and begin to heal. New Life Center provides that safe space, offering a path toward a new life, just as it has done for Frank. New Life Center is one of Arizona’s largest domestic violence shelters, supporting more than 1,200 survivors last year alone with a trauma-informed approach designed to start a true healing process for those who have endured violence and abuse. “We understand that domestic violence survivors not only need immediate shelter but also require long-term healing from trauma,” said Kate Thoene, interim CEO of New Life Center. “This healing process can begin a month after leaving an abusive relationship — or even 20 years later. No matter where someone is on that journey, we offer services to support them.” Children make up 70 percent of the individuals served at New Life Center, so the organization works to ensure that the campus and services are child-friendly, creating a space where kids can heal. One of the unique aspects of the shelter is its casita-style campus, where every family has its own private living space. “We view our shelter as a temporary home for survivors, so we strive to make it as comfortable as possible,” Thoene said. “That’s why we allow pets — and even embrace the presence of a small colony of cats on-site, including Frank.” Only 3 percent of domestic violence shelters nationwide allow pets, and even fewer allow them to live alongside survivors. Thoene said that animals are often a barrier to leaving a dangerous situation. Some survivors refuse to leave because they don’t want to abandon their pets, while others are manipulated by abusers who threaten harm to their animals. This brings us back to Frank, who wandered into the shelter one day and never left. “Over the years, we have cared for him, and in return, he has become an integral part of our community,” Thoene said. “Unlike many cats who tend to be wary of strangers, Frank welcomes everyone. He is known and loved by all — children, adults and even the other animals on campus.” Frank’s temperament is what could best be described as “chill.” He doesn’t spook easily and enjoys the company Kate Thoene, interim CEO of New Life Center, is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive space where survivors can begin their healing journey. FURRY FRIENDS 2025 | 7 | FURRY FRIENDS 2025 | 7 |