A local church has found homes for three kittens that were found in the dumpster.

Gospel Mission Church staff member Jonathon Wiebe says they were surprised to find the animals, but it didn't take long to see an opportunity for an object lesson.

Wiebe himself brought two of the kittens home for his young children. "Maybe we can tell the story of Jesus through these kittens... left in the dump to die, and then there's this sense of rescue, a sense of hope and being given a home."

He says finding a place we belong is something everyone can relate to.

Cats continue to outnumber dogs 4 to 1 at the Pembina Valley Humane Society (PVHS). In 2015 approximately 82,000 cats were taken into shelters across Canada.

Photos by Jonathon Wiebe

As a non-euthanasia shelter, and a max capacity of 50 cats, the shelter relies on the PVHS foster program.

"A foster volunteer is someone who brings an animal into their house for up to three months," PVHS' Megan Rodgers explains. "Sometimes the animals get really stressed out and need to enjoy a home environment for a little while."

To learn more, stop by the Steps For Pets June 9 in Altona and June 10 in Morden. One of PVHS' biggest fundraisers, the events include a 3km walk and free BBQ.