ALBANY, N.Y. — More than over $10.4 million is available to support animal shelters, rescues, and humane societies in making infrastructure upgrades at their facilities.
This is the seventh round of funding dedicated to New York State’s Companion Animal Capital Fund, State Agriculture Commissioner Richard Ball announced Thursday.
It’s the first state-funded program in the nation to support animal-shelter improvement projects, the state noted.
Funded projects will enhance animal care at shelters and “ultimately help to ensure increased adoptions” for New York’s dogs and cats, the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets 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,” Ball said. “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.”
Ball made the announcement during National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week, the department noted.
Applicants need to provide a minimum of 10 percent of the total project costs. More information about eligibility and how to apply can be found at agriculture.ny.gov/rfp-0342-companion-animal-capital-projects-fund.
Applications are due by 4 p.m. on Dec. 20.
About the Fund
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 Thursday. 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 nonprofit 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.
The state says recipients must use funds 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.