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Richmond Celebrates Francine’s Return With ‘Francine Fest’ as Fundraising Ramps Up

A coordinated tech‑assisted search returned the store cat to Richmond.

Overview

  • Mainline Brewery hosted a “Francine Fest” on Oct. 8 to celebrate the Lowe’s store cat’s homecoming, with proceeds benefiting Richmond Animal Care and Control, SOS Cats RVA and the Richmond SPCA.
  • Richmond Animal Care and Control launched “Forever Team Francine” shirts to raise money for SOS Cats RVA, with orders open through Oct. 21.
  • Lowe’s corporate, store staff and local partners used thermal drones, professional trackers and extensive video surveillance during the multiweek search.
  • Security cameras at the Garysburg, N.C., distribution center captured Francine on Oct. 4 after she stowed away on a truck about 85 miles from Richmond.
  • She was secured in a humane trap just before midnight and reunited with the Richmond team on Oct. 6, then cleared by a veterinarian and outfitted with an AirTag.