What's happening The Special Needs Senior Dog Sanctuary, located in a private residence in Stamford, was severely impacted by flash flooding on July 21, 2026, during a period of intense storms.
What's happening
The Special Needs Senior Dog Sanctuary, located in a private residence in Stamford, was severely impacted by flash flooding on July 21, 2026, during a period of intense storms. The lower level of the home—where the sanctuary operates—was completely submerged, with water levels reaching up to 18 inches twice. The flood destroyed the dogs’ living areas, damaged walls, flooring, insulation, trim, doors, and baseboards, and destroyed critical equipment including a commercial laundry dryer, dog bedding, medical supplies, and furniture. The Giorgis, who founded the sanctuary after adopting their first senior dog, said the emotional toll was profound: “To come home and see our beautiful sanctuary… just devastating, like your soul is just crushed.” The nonprofit has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise $15,000 for repairs, including water damage remediation, replacement of drywall and insulation, new flooring, electrical work, and new commercial laundry equipment. As of August 5, 2026, the campaign had raised over $27,000 from donors across the community. The Giorgis emphasized that the sanctuary’s mission—providing a loving, safe home for senior and special needs dogs—remains unchanged, despite the setback.
Community response and insurance challenge
The community has rallied around the sanctuary, with donors, volunteers, and local media highlighting the emotional and practical impact of the flood. The Giorgis described the sanctuary as a place of healing for both dogs and humans, noting that many of the dogs have been abandoned due to age, illness, or disability. The nonprofit’s ability to continue its mission depends on the success of the fundraising effort, as the insurance company has denied coverage due to the space being classified as a basement. This classification limits flood insurance eligibility under standard homeowners’ policies, a common issue in residential areas with basements or lower-level living spaces. The Giorgis have expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support but acknowledged the financial strain, stating that the damage has “set us back tremendously.” They remain committed to their mission of saying “yes” to dogs no one else will adopt, even as they face the challenge of rebuilding a space that is both a sanctuary and a home.
Sources
- https://www.stamfordadvocate.com/news/article/stamford-special-needs-senior-dog-sanctuary-flood-22366187.php
- https://connecticut.news12.com/2026/08/05/community-rallies-around-stamford-dog-sanctuary-devastated-by-july-flash-flooding/4pAOL62v6i7J886q5BSd6b
- https://patch.com/connecticut/stamford/fundraiser-launched-after-flood-damages-special-needs-senior-dog-sanctuary
- https://www.newsbreak.com/news-12-1587832/4811695387826-community-rallies-around-stamford-dog-sanctuary-devastated-by-july-flash-flooding
- https://www.stamfordct.gov/government/boards-commissions/zoning-board/zoning-regulations
- https://us.citylaws.org/ct/stamford/stamford-comprehensive-plan-and-environmental-review
Common questions
How is the Stamford dog sanctuary raising funds after the flood?
The Special Needs Senior Dog Sanctuary launched a GoFundMe campaign with a $15,000 goal to cover repairs, including water damage mitigation, new flooring, and replacement of essential equipment like a commercial dryer. As of August 5, 2026, the campaign had raised over $27,000.
Why doesn't the sanctuary's insurance cover the flood damage?
The space is classified as a basement under standard homeowners’ policies, which typically exclude flood coverage. This common gap leaves many residential properties vulnerable to climate-related damage.
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