Read the passage from "Improve the Zoo!" Some may think that the extra money should be spent on things that are more important, which usually means more necessary to humans. I agree that street repair is important. A well-stocked library, open long hours, is important. But zoo animals are something that streets and library shelves aren't. They're alive. They suffer. And it is in our power to ease their suffering. This need comes first. If we don't help our animals now, we may never have another opportunity.
Which best identifies the purpose of the boldfaced text?
To introduce the essay and state the main claim
To emphasize the opposition's refutations
To emphasize the opposing position
To refute the counterclaim