Wildlife Waystation in need of money to continue protecting, rehabilitating animals

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- The Wildlife Waystation in the Angeles National Forest has helped wild animals for decades, and now the station needs a helping hand.

The 160-acre animal sanctuary took a heavy hit during the recession in 2007. At one time, volunteers cared for more than 1,000 animals, but now the number has dwindled to 400.

"We really went to the bottom of the barrel, so to speak. And it's been very hard trying to get back up to running speed, but here are in 2015 and we're moving forward," said Martine Colette, the waystation's founder.

Martine is convinced if she can get more people to see the waystation, donations will follow. She is working on improvements to meet county permit requirements, but that also requires funding.

"We've done electric upgrades, but now we've got some flood control to do and so that'll be part of that," Colette said.

Many of the animals could use a helping hand. One that would keep them comfortable and safe.