Norristown, PA -- (SBWire) -- 01/16/2017 --Elmwood Park Zoo, a popular zoo near Philadelphia, is bracing for the winter's harshest weather with an appeal to help fund the purchase of durable items and cold weather supplies to withstand the elements. Their Winter Care Appeal is an annual fundraising effort that raises money to counterbalance the cold season's destructive nature.

This year's appeal has the support of Wynn VW and Volvo of Norristown, who will be matching donations, up to a total of $10,000.

Elmwood Park Zoo, a non-profit organization located in the heart of Montgomery County, charges admission fees to help fund the zoo's operations throughout the year. Those funds tend to dry up during the winter months as admissions slow (and even stop on the worst weather days). Although the numbers of guests coming through the gates drops during the winter, the zoo's staff members still work daily to care, feed, and heat the over 100 species of wild and exotic animals that call the zoo home.

Armed with blowtorches and shovels, members of the facilities and animal care staff continue to battle with frozen locks while navigating through mounds of snow and patches of black ice to ensure that each animal continues to receive the daily care that they need.

During the Winter Care Appeal, Elmwood Park Zoo asks for donations that help offset the loss of admissions revenue while also contributing to specific needs of the zoo and its animals. For example, a $50 donation will purchase enrichment toys for the squirrel monkeys. A $100 donation will purchase extra grain for the bison. A $250 donation will purchase extra bedding to help keep the animals cozy and warm through the cold winter nights.

Donors can double the impact of their gift this year thanks to Wynn VW and Volvo of Norristown. They will be generously matching donations of $100 or more, up to a total of $10,000.

The Wynn Group is a family owned and operated auto dealership located in the Norristown area for over 50 years, who is fully committed to giving back to the local community. In a statement, the Wynn Group said, "We are a long-standing partner with the Elmwood Park Zoo and we welcomed the opportunity to assist on a different level with The Winter Care Appeal."

Donors are also encouraged to contact their employer's HR or finance departments to inquire about their participation in matching gift programs.

Donations to the zoo's Winter Care Appeal are tax-deductible and can be made online at epzwintercare.com. Donations can also be mailed to Elmwood Park Zoo, Attn: Winter Care, 1661 Harding Blvd., Norristown PA 19401.

For more information on Winter Care and all of this Pennsylvania zoo's upcoming events, please visit http://www.elmwoodparkzoo.org or call 610-277-3825 ext. 229 or 238.

About Elmwood Park Zoo
Located in Norristown, PA, the Elmwood Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Pennsylvania and is a premiere destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts. The zoo features over 100 species from all over the globe. Elmwood Park Zoo offers guests both unique wildlife encounters as well as one-of-a-kind entertainment opportunities. The zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is owned and operated by the Norristown Zoological Society, a non-profit organization.

For more information about upcoming Zoo events, visit http://www.elmwoodparkzoo.org/.