Cats and Coffee: Downtown Johnstown to Welcome Cat Café

Downtown Johnstown is set to embrace a delightful new addition: the Rusty Cat Café, where patrons can enjoy their favorite coffee beverages in the company of adoptable rescue cats.

Located at 338 Walnut Street, the café aims to provide a cozy environment for both cat enthusiasts and coffee lovers. Donna Christopher, a local State Farm insurance agent, conceived the idea after she and her neighbors rescued 19 feral cats behind her office building.

Scheduled to open in late January, the café will collaborate with the Johnstown Animal Welfare Society and Flood City Kitties to bring in cats seeking forever homes.

Christopher emphasized the pressing issue of cat overpopulation in the area, stating, "The overpopulation of cats in the Johnstown area remains a significant challenge." She added, "Rusty Cat Café was created to address this by offering a relaxing environment where visitors can savor a cup of coffee or a pastry while spending time with friendly, adoptable cats."

This initiative aligns with Johnstown's broader efforts to revitalize its downtown area. The city's Economic Development Bureau has been actively working to attract new businesses and enhance the local economy. Programs like the Façade Improvement Program offer support to businesses aiming to improve their storefronts, contributing to a more vibrant downtown atmosphere.

Residents and visitors alike are eagerly anticipating the café's opening, viewing it as a unique addition that combines community engagement with animal welfare.