Nearly $10 million has been awarded to 31 animal care organizations across New York State through the eighth round of the New York State Companion Animal Capital Projects Fund, the first state program in the nation to fund capital projects for animal shelters.
Governor Kathy Hochul on May 22 announced the awards. The funding will support construction, renovation and expansion projects that will enhance animal care and health and help ensure adoptions for New York’s dogs and cats, with $1 million dedicated specifically to sheltering organizations not under contract with municipalities in underserved regions.
The new grants are part of Gov. Hochul’s commitment to securing safe housing and care for sheltered dogs and cats as they await adoption.
“From cats and dogs to small animals like rabbits, guinea pigs, and more, pets are family,” Hochul said. “Many of these beloved companion animals start their journey at an animal shelter or humane society, so I’m proud to continue supporting these essential organizations through New York’s historic Companion Animal Capital Projects Fund. This funding awarded today is going to make a real difference, helping to better equip these vital facilities with the tools they need to keep our furry friends safe and well cared for as they wait to meet their new families.”
Since the 2017 launch of the Companion Animal Capital Projects Fund program, which is administered by the Department of Agriculture and Markets, the state has dedicated over $48 million to the program. In total, 150 projects have been awarded across New York so far. The funding helps to offset the costs associated with renovating dog kennels, improving medical facilities, or building more efficient shelters to reduce overall operational costs. Projects funded this year include updated living spaces for dogs and cats, improved HVAC and heating systems, expansions to facilities to improve medical care, as well as additional infrastructure updates.
Competitive grants were awarded to shelters based on a need assessment, detailed project description and reasonableness of cost. You can find a complete list of all 31 organizations and a brief description of the funded projects here.
A good use of taxpayer money, yes?
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