Animal House Project, a nonprofit organization that serves pet owners in need, will present "Crafts for Critters" on Saturday, May 13, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Great Marsh Institute, a private estate located at 34 Moores Road, Elverson.

Crafters will be able to set up outdoors on the property, indoors in the site's Glasshouse and on the porch of the Glasshouse. Local nonprofit organizations that want to distribute information about their services are also welcome to participate.

"The Great Marsh Institute (is situated) on 600 acres overlooking the marsh," said Amanda Cook of Elverson, the volunteer fundraising coordinator for Animal House Project. "The porch has been the popular place because it's covered, and you don't have to bring a tent. There are also plenty of outside tables available."

Cook noted that craft vendors must sell homemade items. No home-based businesses will be permitted. Food trucks are also welcome. "(The food trucks) will be near the house in the secondary parking lot area," she pointed out.

Cook, who is a crafter herself and makes homemade candles, approached the Great Marsh Institute about hosting the first-time event. "The Great Marsh Institute is our next-door neighbor, and they are also a nonprofit organization focused on researching the marsh area and following birds' migration," she said. "They allow a lot of schools to come in and study the ponds and the birds. They do events in and around the Glasshouse, so I asked them if we can do an event there."

Cook noted that the event not only benefits the Animal House Project but also supports the participating crafters and vendors, as well as the shoppers, who will have a variety of items to choose from. "Ideally, I would like to see at least 50 (vendors)," said Cook. "It is a good opportunity for them to get themselves out there, plus (shoppers) can support local people."

This is Cook's first time organizing a large fundraising event. She became a volunteer with Animal House Project just over a year ago. "I had dog beds and supplies to donate. When I was there, MaryBeth (Yannessa, board president) said that they also needed volunteers," said Cook, explaining how the volunteer opportunity came about.

The "Crafts for Critters" event will take place rain or shine. More information and a link to register can be found at http://www.facebook.com/AnimalHouseProject1 or by visiting http://www.animalhouseproject.org and choosing "Events."

Animal House Project dba Chester County Pet Food Pantry helps people feed and care for their companion pets in order to keep them out of shelters and rescues. In addition, the organization provides spaying, neutering and low-cost vaccination of pantry clients' pets. The pantry's spokespuppy is Yoshi, who will is scheduled to be on hand at the "Crafts for Critters" event.

The pantry is always in need of financial donations, pet food donations and volunteers willing to work at events and on distribution days. For more information, visit the previously mentioned Facebook page and website, call 484-949-8329 or email info@animalhouseproject.org.