SF State feline enthusiasts gathered food donations today to help support and feed feral cats living on campus.

There are currently about a dozen fixed feral cats living at SF State, according to Brigid Duffy, administrative analyst and specialist for Academic Technology and Campus Cat Committee member.

“Feed a feral gives students and faculty a chance to support a safer, healthier environment for the animals who roam the campus when we’ve gone home,” Duffy said.

The cat food drive was inspired by National Feral Cat Day, which was founded in 2001 by Alley Cat Allies, a national organization who advocates for the humane treatment of feral cats, according to Duffy.

Students and faculty interested in donating canned and dry cat food were prompted to visit the Media and Equipment Distribution room in the J. Paul Leonard Library Tuesday morning. Donations were collected until 10:30 p.m.

“(Feeding a feral cat) also gives you a good feeling if you see one of these beautiful animals on campus, to know that it is safe, it’s being fed, and you had a part in that,” Duffy said.

At 2:45 p.m., approximately five dozen cans and 10 pounds of dry cat food had been donated, Duffy said. She also encouraged donations throughout the year, stating that they are always welcome.

Duffy is one of 20 members on SF State’s Campus Cat Committee, which is comprised of students, staff, and faculty members who act as volunteers. The committee keeps an eye on feral cats living at SF State by providing food, veterinarian care and finding homes for them.

Some of the dozen feral cats that roam on campus include Sally, Monkey Tail and Tummy.

“There are many, many good people on campus who care about our surroundings, where we live and work,” said Duffy. “I hope, once they drop off a donation for the campus cats, the next time they see one they will smile, knowing that cat’s OK.”