Primate Rescue Center Inc

Apes and monkeys have been used as lab subjects, entertainment animals and even tried as household pets for decades. As a result, many primates have suffered emotional and physical traumas and need our help!

Fortunately, the Primate Rescue Center exists to provide a safe haven for primates in need. We work tirelessly to undo past traumas by providing physical and emotional rehabilitation to each individual we rescue. 

Over the last 38 years, the sanctuary has rescued hundreds of primates, including our current residents — 8 chimpanzees who live together as a family group, and 25 monkeys of 8 different species. Our sanctuary occupies 30 acres of land in central Kentucky, with buildings and grounds designed to afford the residents a quiet, peaceful place to enjoy their lives. We provide a personalized, species-specific care plan to each rescued primate, giving them proper nutrition, medical care, safe and secure enclosure spaces with engaging enrichment, and dynamic companionship opportunities — these are the core components and foundation of our care program, giving them the second chance at life they deserve. 

The Primate Rescue Center is a tax-exempt, nonprofit organization that receives no direct funding from the federal government or the state of Kentucky. We rely on the donations of passionate, caring individuals to sustain the medical, psychological and biological needs of the residents.

On this Giving Day for Apes, we are focusing our fundraising efforts on the rising medical care costs for our special needs and advanced age chimpanzees.  From expensive medications and supplements to medical supplies and veterinary costs, your donation will help us to continue providing them with the necessary and lifesaving care they deserve. Check out the photos and captions below to learn more about the medical needs of our chimpanzee troop.

If you'd like to learn more about the PRC, visit our website at www.primaterescue.org, or check out our social media pages on Facebook, Instagram, X, and Youtube.

Noelle chimpanzee, age 31, is living with diabetes. Managing her condition is difficult and requires expensive medications and dietary supplements, as well as regular diagnostic testing. We need at least $1,500 each month to continue the lifesaving medical care she needs, in addition to her general care costs.

Zulu chimpanzee, 55, is our oldest resident. Zulu relies on medication to alleviate arthritis and joint pain, keep her blood pressure in a safe range, and control the 
growth of a fibroid tumor in her uterus. Zulu's medication, vitamin and supplement expenses reach $250 each month, in addition to her general care costs.

Victoria, our second oldest chimp at 53, requires birth control and pain medication to help with painful menstrual cycles and arthritis, along with supplements and vitamins.

Donald, 51 and the alpha male of our troop, relies on blood pressure medication and a healthy diet and exercise plan to keep his heart healthy and strong.

Both Jenny and Martina, age 30 and 34, receive birth control to regulate their menstrual cycle and control uncomfortable symptoms of ovulation. They also take daily vitamins and probiotics to aid digestion, gut health and energy level.

Rodney and Ike are always on the move and need additional nutrition to support their active lifestyle. At 31 years old, they receive supplements to their diets and protein shakes to keep them strong and healthy.