ERIN – The Upper Credit Humane Society (UCHS) will be hosting a fundraiser for a new home on June 22 from 10am to 3pm.
Last year, the Town of Erin gave the animal shelter a final extension, to 2028, to operate out of the town’s building at 5383 Trafalgar Road.
“The agreement between the Town of Erin and UCHS is a reflection of our shared values and commitment to making a positive impact in the community,” Erin Mayor Michael Dehn stated in a 2023 press release.
The UCHS Shelter has been in operation since 1991 and relies on the support of donors and volunteers. The society serves animals in Wellington County and surrounding municipalities.
The shelter moved into its current location in 2002, but ultimately the lease expired. UCHS officials are searching for a new home but with little success, they decided to shift their focus to fundraising.
As expenses continue to flood in, event coordinator for UCHS, Debi D’alessandro decided to launch the open house fundraiser.
“It’s hard because everything we do is done by donations,” D’alessandro told the Advertiser.
The move includes a hefty price tag as the shelter houses 90 animals. The highest expense is animal care, which takes over half of UCHS’ income, and veterinary care is a close second.
Donations help cover the cost of food, neutering and spaying, yearly vaccinations, protection against diseases and providing a safe and clean environment.
The majority of the animals are cats, with five dogs currently up for adoption.
“This year has been busy with litters being dropped off; it’s kitten season so all the kittens are coming in,” said D’alessandro.
The cats, who roam freely in the shelter, will be in three rooms for attendees to cuddle and play with – and maybe even adopt – at the June 22 event, added D’alessandro.
Around 20 vendors will be at the fundraiser, selling items ranging from crafts to food. Shelter tours, door prizes, face painting and a Paw Patrol character meet-and-greet will be part of the fundraiser as well.
All puppies have been adopted so no dogs will be available to touch and play with. Older dogs may be on display through a fenced-off area, to keep everyone safe.
“People have to realize some of these animals come to us traumatized, some have been abused or thrown out like garbage,” said D’alessandro.
“We never know what has happened to these dogs.”
The humane society will also be launching a Loving Home campaign sometime this month, with more information at a later date.
Donations can be made through Canada Helps or PayPal. E-transfers are also accepted by emailing chair@uppercredit.com (note “open house” on transfer).
For more information visit uppercredit.com.
