Clear The Shelters, NBCUniversal Local’s nationwide pet adoption and donation campaign, kicks off in August and what better way to start than with a Flight to Freedom carrying over 250 shelter pets.

Many animal shelters are struggling to find adopters and are over capacity, putting countless dogs and cats at risk of euthanasia.

Every month, The Animal Rescue Site sponsors a Good Flight (called Flight to Freedom) to save shelter pets and give them the second chance they deserve. This month's flight will take homeless dogs and cats of all ages and sizes from overcrowded southern shelters and fly them to New Jersey and New Hampshire to find loving homes.

Meet some of the passengers below.

Ruthie

Photo: Cara's House

Ruthie, a 15-year-old Dachshund mix, was found wandering the streets with a hole on the side of her face. She was taken in and treated for an abscessed tooth and is now ready to find a loving home to enjoy her golden years.

Mercy

Photo: Lafourche Parish Animal Shelter

A 2-year-old boxer named Mercy was surrendered to the shelter when her family moved and couldn’t take her with. She loves everyone she meets and is looking forward to finding her person.

Frankie

Photo: Save A Pet

The 5-month-old puppy was found on a rural road underweight and severely dehydrated by a postal worker. She offered him food and water and contacted a local rescue. The sweet boy is ready to explore the world and find a loving family.

Let’s not forget about all the friendly felines.

Elvis

Photo: Good Karma Pet Rescue

Elvis is the king of snuggles. The feral cat wandered into a shelter volunteer's back yard and after surviving on the rough streets for years is ready to find a home. The sweet boy enjoys being around people, other cats, and even some dogs.

Marilynn

Photo: Saving Sage

The young cat is shy when meeting new people but quickly warms up during playtime. She loves to be scratched behind her ears and hopes to find a home with other cats to play with.

Captain Hook

Photo: Saving Sage

This one-eyed kitten was taken off the streets with an intense URI. He has been treated and is ready to enjoy all life has to offer. He's a playful fella and nothing slows him down.

Pepper Kittens

Photo: Humane Society of Broward County

A litter of 12-week-old kittens were rescued from the wall of a local hotel and brought to the shelter. They were "spicy" on arrival and were named Pepper kittens. They will find new homes and names in New Hampshire.

Help us fund August's Flight to Freedom now! Just $5 helps cover the fuel costs of flying a pet 125 miles towards safety.

Adopting and fostering saves lives. We encourage everyone to head to their local shelter to find a new best friend or help by volunteering or fostering.