The Cape May County Zoo, already a cherished sanctuary for countless species, has now been endowed with a substantial $1.4 million from the estate of a late local philanthropist, Charles Muller. As revealed in a Facebook announcement on Tuesday night, the windfall marks the largest single donation received by the zoo to date. According to NJ.com, these funds are earmarked for the zoo's critical needs, including animal food, shelter, and medical care.
This sizable contribution was made possible through the estate of Muller, an Edison resident, whose affinity for the zoo spanned decades. His commitment continued even after the passing of his wife, Elizabeth, in 2017. Muller found solace amidst the zoo's residents, where he forged a notable friendship with Michael Laffey, the zoo's former director of parks and named executor of Mullers' will. This bond and Muller's devotion to the zoo's mission were reported by 6abc.
Zoo officials and local government representatives have publicly expressed their gratitude for this act of generosity. Cape May County Commissioner Andrew Bulakowsk praised the donation, stating, "It's gifts like these that help keep the Cape May County Zoo the jewel that it is," as mentioned by CBS News Philadelphia. Furthermore, plans have been mentioned to memorialize Muller for his substantial contribution, leaving a lasting legacy at the beloved zoo.
Leonard Desiderio, Cape May County commissioner director, recognized the significance of such support, saying, "We are extremely fortunate to have friends of the zoo from around the country and from all walks of life who love our Zoo as much as we do," as noted by 6abc. Indeed, the zoo operates without an admission fee, relying primarily on donations to manage its operations and maintain its status as a free-access public treasure.
The zoo, known for its menagerie of exotic animals and serene settings, invites guests from all over the region. In offering a haven for wildlife and an enclave of education for visitors, the Cape May County Zoo continues to thrive, bolstered now by a legacy of benevolence from the Muller family, and a community that embraces its wild heart.
