Photo: James Rojas/WBZ NewsRadio
SALEM, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — Salem Wildlife Rescue will be leaving Massachusetts come September.
Jess Reese, the owner and founder of the nonprofit, said the state’s rising cost of living has made her unable to do her job. That’s why she’s moving to North Carolina.
“Costs of living have been going up like crazy, I have to close down everything I’ve built,” Reese said. “I can’t find anything else that would allow me to have wild animals and be affordable, as someone literally on their own with no second income or help.”
Reese founded the organization four years ago after taking classes through the New England Wildlife Center.
“It’s great .. That’s how I got my beginnings to get ready for the state exam,” Reese said.
She’s enjoyed her time caring for critters like squirrels, birds, possums and even a bunny she ended up keeping as a pet, and hopes someone else can continue the work in her place.
“I know there's not a lot of us, so who’s going to fill that gap?” Reese said.
She said the classes she took at the New England Wildlife Center are held twice a year, and a great resource for anyone interested.
“We need you. Please,” Reese said.
Reese has also set up a gofundme to help with moving expenses, which is available here.
WBZ’s James Rojas (@JamesRojas.bsky.social) reports.