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The West Sound Wildlife Shelter has postponed its annual fundraiser, the Call to the Wild Gala, in response to the widening spread of 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

Lisa Horn, executive director of the nonprofit shelter, announced the postponement Monday.

“Our staff, volunteers and supporters remain our top priority during this rapidly changing COVID-19 situation. The health and safety of our community is of the utmost importance to us,” Horn wrote in her announcement.

The gala will be postponed from April 25 to Oct. 10 at the Clearwater Casino.

Horn said tickets that have already been purchased will be honored at the Oct. 10 benefit, and noted that all donations of items, art and experiences for the auction will be held in safekeeping until the October event.

The Bainbridge Island-based shelter will remain open as staff continues to monitor the COVID-19 crisis.