The Finger Lakes SPCA of CNY, the sole animal shelter in Cayuga County, has successfully reached its critical fundraising goal of $80,000, ensuring its continued operation. Executive Director Nick Lapresi expressed immense relief upon achieving this milestone, crucial for the shelter’s survival and future developments.
The fundraising efforts, marked by urgency and community support, were pivotal in securing the future of the 70-year-old shelter. Earlier in the year, the shelter had received a substantial grant of $482,491.50 from New York State under the Companion Animal (CAPA) program for shelter improvements. Despite this aid, a funding shortfall of $160,000 remained, prompting the Emerson Foundation to offer a matching challenge – if the shelter could raise $80,000 by December 31, 2023, they would contribute the remaining amount.
This challenge set the stage for an intense fundraising campaign, which, as the deadline neared, saw heightened efforts and community involvement. The shelter not only met but doubled their target, a feat that brings them closer to meeting the Companion Act’s standards for upgrades. However, the journey doesn’t end here.
The shelter now faces the task of coordinating with state authorities and construction teams for the renovation, set to commence in 2024. An immediate concern is the need for foster homes for animals, particularly dogs, as the first phase of improvement involves reconstructing the dog kennels. This temporary displacement highlights an increased demand for fosters, ranging from a week to a month, to alleviate the stress on animals during construction. While the fundraising goal for the upgrades has been met, the shelter continues to welcome donations of all forms, emphasizing that every contribution, monetary or in-kind, is valuable and appreciated.
Donations can be made through their online platform to support ongoing and future needs.
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