During National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week, New York State announced over $10.4 million is available to support animal shelters, rescues, and humane societies in making critical infrastructure upgrades at their facilities. This is the seventh round of funding dedicated to New York State’s Companion Animal Capital Fund. Funded projects will enhance animal care at shelters and ultimately help to ensure increased adoptions for New York’s dogs and cats.
Since the launch of the Companion Animal Capital Fund program in 2017, the state has dedicated over $38 million to the program, including the $10.4 million announced today. In total, 98 projects have been awarded across New York so far.
Administered by the Department of Agriculture and Markets, the program provides grants to eligible municipal and incorporated not-for-profit pounds, shelters, humane societies, and rescue facilities to offset the costs associated with capital projects, such as renovating dog kennels, improving medical facilities, or building more efficient shelters to reduce overall operational costs. Funds must be used to support capital projects, including construction, renovation, rehabilitation, installation, acquisition, or expansion of buildings, equipment, or facilities necessary for the secure containment, health, and adequate care of sheltered dogs and cats.
A total of $10.45 million is available through Round 7 of the program. Of that, $4 million will be reserved for projects in underserved municipalities or regions for non-municipal shelters. Applicants need to provide a minimum of 10% of the total project costs. More information about eligibility and how to apply can be found here. Applications are due by 4:00 pm on December 20, 2024.
New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “We’ve seen firsthand that funding provided to shelters and rescues through New York’s Companion Animal Capital Fund initiative is making a true difference, helping these organizations make critical upgrades that mean better care for New York’s animals as they await their forever homes. New York State is proud to offer this latest round, which will build on our incredible program successes so far, and we encourage all eligible entities to learn more and consider applying.”
Each year during the first full week of November, The Humane Society of the United States celebrates National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week in honor of animal shelters and the dedicated people who work hard to protect the animals in their care.
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