Northumberland Humane Society launches expansion campaign
Photo courtesy of the Northumberland Humane Society.
By Cecilia Nasmith
The Northumberland Humane Society is growing, with this week's launch of the $4-million Built On Second Chances – Where Animals Find Their Way Home project to build a new animal care and adoption centre.
Construction is under way at their Theatre Road location, which can no longer adequately meet the needs of the programming, not to mention the animals and people they serve.
“For 60 years, the Northumberland Humane Society has been here for animals and the people who care about them – today we are building for the next 60 years,” Board and Campaign Chair Denise O'Brien said in the announcement.
“Built On Second Chances is about creating a facility that reflects the quality of care our animals deserve and gives our staff, volunteers and community the environment and resources needed to continue this important work.”
The new animal care and adoption centre will provide purpose-built spaces designed to improve animal health and well-being, increase capacity and create a more accessible and welcoming environment for animals, adopters, volunteers, staff and visitors.
Phase 1 is a 6,100-sq.-ft. expansion that will include three new dog pods with 12 additional adoption kennels, improved cat accommodations (including new cat condos and feature rooms), dedicated meet-and-greet spaces, accessible washrooms, improved reception and surrender areas, a new kitchen and laundry, and significant improvements to ventilation and sound management. It is expected to be completed next August.
Phase 2 will build on these improvements with expanded animal care and operational spaces, including dog enrichment and training areas, grooming and shower facilities, and improved intake and isolation areas.
Phase 3 will advance the Humane Society's longer-term vision for expanded veterinary and community animal-welfare services.
The work of the Human Society goes well beyond sheltering and adoption. They provide programs and services throughout the county, including its Pet Food Bank, Pet Aid Spay/Neuter assistance, Crisis Care/Emergency Boarding, lost-pet and reunification services, foster care, surrender support, humane education and community outreach. This programming helps keep animals safe, support people experiencing difficult circumstances and – wherever possible – help pets remain with the people who love them.
It's all done without government operating funding, relying on the generosity of donors, volunteers, businesses, foundations and community partners to provide its programs and services.
They are now inviting individuals, families, businesses, foundations and community organizations from across the county to be part of this next chapter.
“Every animal that finds safety here, every family that finds support and every adoption that brings an animal home is made possible because people in our community choose to care,” O'Brien said.
“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has already helped bring us to this point, and we invite our community to help us build what comes next.”
For more information, visit northumberlandhs.com
