During the five weeks since the Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA began waiving adoption fees for cats and kittens, 282 have been placed into new homes.

This marks a 52 percent increase compared to the same five-week period last year when PHS/SPCA had regular adoption fees and placed 185 cat/kittens into new homes, according to a press release sent out by the nonprofit Monday. Shelter staff will continue the "no-fee” adoption promotion indefinitely. Until the promotion began, regular adoption fees were $80 for most cats; $50 for cats 7 years old or older and $95 for kittens under 6 months.

While adopters are no longer charged a fee, PHS/SPCA still has an adoption process which includes having adopters complete a one-page profile and meet with an adoption counselor to discuss the animal, basic health and care and responsible ownership.

And, as is always the case, PHS/SPCA encourages donations in any amount at the time of the adoption to help offset expenses.

The shelter currently has close to 80 cats and kittens awaiting homes. In addition, more cats are being held at PHS/SPCA’s intake facility at Coyote Point, 12 Airport Blvd., and will be moved to the new center as soon as space allows. For more information visit www.PHS-SPCA.org.