Effective Date: May 2026
C.A.R.E. respects your privacy and is committed to protecting the information you share with us through our website.
This Privacy Policy explains what information we collect, how we use it, when we may share it, and what choices you have.
1. Information We Collect
We may collect information you provide directly to us, including when you:
- contact us through the website
- submit an adoption, foster, volunteer, or general inquiry form
- sign up for updates or newsletters
- register for an event
- otherwise communicate with us online
This information may include:
- name
- email address
- phone number
- mailing address
- information included in messages, applications, or other forms you choose to submit
We may also collect certain information automatically when you visit the website, such as:
- IP address
- browser type
- device type
- pages visited
- date and time of visits
- referring website
- basic usage and analytics information
2. How We Use Information
We may use the information we collect to:
- respond to questions and requests
- review and process applications or inquiries
- communicate about adoptions, volunteering, events, and shelter updates
- improve the website and user experience
- maintain internal records
- protect the security and integrity of the website
- comply with legal obligations
3. Cookies and Analytics
Our website may use cookies and similar technologies to help the site function properly, understand how visitors use the site, and improve performance.
You can usually control cookies through your browser settings. Please note that disabling cookies may affect how parts of the website function.
4. How We Share Information
We do not sell your personal information.
We may share information:
- with service providers that help us operate the website or support our communications
- with vendors that help us manage forms, email communications, website hosting, or analytics
- when required by law, legal process, or to protect the rights, safety, or property of C.A.R.E., our users, or others
- as part of an organizational transition, restructuring, or transfer of assets, if applicable
We only share information as reasonably necessary for these purposes.
5. Email Communications
If you provide your email address, we may send you updates about shelter news, events, volunteer opportunities, adoptions, fundraising, or other mission-related communications.
You may unsubscribe from marketing emails at any time by clicking the unsubscribe link in the email or by contacting us directly.
6. Children’s Privacy
Our website is not intended for children under 13, and we do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13 through the website without appropriate consent. If you believe a child has submitted personal information to us, please contact us so we can review and address the issue. The FTC notes that nonprofits generally are not subject to COPPA, but encourages clear privacy practices and child protections online.
7. Data Security
We use reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards designed to protect the personal information we collect. However, no method of internet transmission or electronic storage is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security. The FTC advises organizations to know what data they collect, keep only what they need, protect it, dispose of it securely, and plan for security incidents.
8. Data Retention
We retain personal information only for as long as reasonably necessary for the purposes described in this Privacy Policy, unless a longer retention period is required or permitted by law.
9. Third-Party Services
Our website may link to or integrate with third-party platforms such as social media sites, pet adoption tools, event services, or fundraising resources. These third parties have their own privacy practices, and C.A.R.E. is not responsible for their content or policies.
10. Your Choices
You may contact us to:
- update or correct information you have submitted
- ask questions about our privacy practices
- opt out of certain communications
We will make reasonable efforts to honor your request, subject to legal and operational requirements.
11. Changes to This Privacy Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Any changes will be posted on this page with a revised effective date. Continued use of the website after changes are posted means you accept the updated policy.
12. Contact Us
If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or our privacy practices, please contact us:
C.A.R.E.
1528 27th St SE
Ruskin, FL 33570
(813) 645-2273
Info@careshelter.org