How We Started, continued from "About Us"
It took Cheri three years to recover Mel to what he should have been, and the day finally came that Walt decided it was time for him to go to a new home. Suffice this chapter in Melvin’s life to read: Cheri cried, Walt caved, Cheri prevailed and Melvin wins. Cheri and Melvin will be together evermore.
The experience of these horses and a farm animal abuse case in Huron involving 30 starved cows, a horse and an array of other barnyard animals showed Cheri that there was a need in Wayne County for help for these animals, when their people could no longer care for them.
Melvin’s arrival marked the beginning of Cracker Box Palace, a one-time 50-acre migrant camp. Burt and Cheri found the process so rewarding of working with Melvin and a few of his relatives, they decided to make a lifelong commitment of it. In the spring of 2001 the Palace opened officially. The list of residents has expanded from horses alone to include geese, ducks, chickens, rabbits, goats, sheep, and several breeds of pigs. Many animals have enjoyed brief stays at the Palace, making new friends and receiving veterinary care before going on to their new homes. Others remain eligible for adoption, meanwhile staying comfortable and happy in the safety and care of the workers of CBP.
The Palace has received state and federal tax-exempt status and is governed by a Board of Directors with expertise in many different areas of interest. We have an excellent working relationship with area veterinarians, and law enforcement agencies, always working for the fair treatment of all animals. As we enter our 5th year, we look forward to rejuvenation our new home at the historic Alasa Farms in Alton, NY. We keep focused on providing a fun and educational atmosphere dedicated to rescue, rehabilitation, carefully chosen adoptions and sanctuary for farm animals in need.