Project is helping to raise money to build a cat shelter for NE Iowa

Cute little mice made out of felt are doing the big job of raising money and awareness for the need for an animal shelter in NE Iowa.

Volunteers at Blue Heron Knittery are making the felt mice, which get sold at the store for a suggested donation of $5.

Blue Heron Knittery owner Sarah Iversen says over $500 in donations has been raised so far--and that's before Ridiculous Day and Nordic Fest.

Volunteer Anna Linnell says it's hoped the project will educate the public about the need for a shelter for cats.  She says many cats get dumped by families or individuals who no longer want to care for them.  Unfortunately, there are few people willing to take in stray cats--and no established facility, either.

The NE Iowa Humane Society is raising funds for a new animal shelter.  Linnell says it would be a big help to have a place that can help with stray cats.

The felt mice are available at Blue Heron Knittery on Water Street and at the Critters & Such offices.