The Shelter Slumber Pawty is a one-of-a-kind overnight fundraising event that brings people into animal shelters to raise money, share stories, and shine a spotlight on pets waiting for homes. 

On April 18, 2026, participating shelters across the country will invite supporters to spend the night at their shelter or join in other creative ways to raise awareness and critical funds for animals in their care.

What makes this story compelling is not just the fundraising.  It is the experience itself: people spending the night alongside shelter pets, sharing their stories in real time and helping their communities see shelter animals in a new way.  

Reporters can localize this story through participating shelters in their area, interview organizers and participants, and highlight the animals, people and moments that make this event so powerful.

Looking for a local angle?  View the participating shelters across the US. 

Need interviews, photos or event details?  Contact Jamie Case at jamie@projectbella.org or (314) 779-9744. We can connect you with a participating shelter in your area.