Niagara County legislators secure $5,000 to help Niagara SPCA meet new state standards

The Niagara SPCA received $5,000 in community partnership funding secured by Niagara County legislators David Godfrey, Christopher McKimmie and Michael Casale to support the shelter’s fundraising effort to upgrade its facility and comply with new, state-mandated animal shelter standards.

New York’s recently implemented shelter regulations establish additional requirements for animal housing, enrichment, exercise, veterinary care, and staffing. While intended to strengthen standards of care, unfunded state mandates can place a significant financial burden on nonprofit organizations, particularly animal shelters that already rely heavily on donations, grants and community support.

“Providing safe, humane and comfortable housing for every animal in our care has always been a priority for the Niagara SPCA,” said Jennifer Pitarresi, longtime president of the Niagara SPCA board of directors. “These new state requirements come with real costs, and we are extremely grateful to legislators McKimmie, Casale and Godfrey for recognizing that challenge and stepping forward to help.”

The funding will go directly toward the Niagara SPCA’s kennel improvement fundraising goal, helping modernize shelter space and ensure the organization can continue providing high-quality care while meeting the state’s new standards.

“Unfunded state mandates are difficult for any nonprofit to absorb, and animal shelters are no exception,” said Jennifer Lewin, Niagara SPCA director of development. “This support from Niagara County is meaningful, but we still need the help of our community. Sponsoring a kennel is a direct way for individuals and local businesses to help us make these necessary improvements and continue providing the level of care our animals deserve.”

Any individual or business interested in sponsoring a kennel can email sponsorakennel@niagaraspca.org or call 716-731-4368.

Niagara SPCA serves animals and families throughout Niagara County, providing shelter, veterinary care, rehabilitation, enrichment, and adoption services for animals in need.