Today is a very special day as it marks the 20th anniversary of the rescue of the 266 chimpanzees from the Coulston Foundation. On September 16, 2002, Save the Chimps’ late founder Dr. Carole Noon was handed the keys to one of the most notorious primate research labs in history, The Coulston Foundation. In that instant, 266 chimpanzees locked away in their barren cages were rescued from years of exploitation as medical research subjects and given the promise of a new and brighter future. This remains the largest single rescue of chimpanzees in history.
This historic day has become known at Save the Chimps as “Bananaversary” and is celebrated each year with banana-themed enrichment parties for the chimps. It is a joy to watch the chimpanzees enjoy the festivities, especially knowing that each Bananaversary brings the chimpanzees a year further away from the horrors they once endured.
As we watch them play with friends, run the acres of their islands, enjoy nutritious meals, groom each other, and receive top-notch care, we thank you for helping us give them the retirement they deserve.
Help us continue to support their life in sanctuary by giving to our Giving Day for Apes campaign in honor of Bananaversary!
🍌 $5.67 can sponsor bananas for an entire chimp family
🍌 $25 can sponsor banana chips and dried fruit for enrichment!
🍌 $50 can sponsor mixed nuts for party enrichment!
🍌 $74 can sponsor bananas for the whole sanctuary!
🍌 $150 can sponsor an entire island party!
🍌 Any gift over $500 will be matched, giving it twice the impact! (Match ends 12/31/22)