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New York announces $10 million in funding for animal shelter upgrades

The New York State Department of Agriculture is making over $10.4 million available to support animal shelters, rescues, and humane societies in upgrading their facilities. Announced during National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week, the funding comes as part of the seventh round of the state's Companion Animal Capital Fund, which has provided over $38 million to nearly 100 projects since its inception in 2017.

The funds are earmarked for capital projects such as kennel renovations, improved medical facilities, and expanded shelters to better care for animals awaiting adoption. New York Agriculture Commissioner Richard Ball emphasized the program’s success in enhancing shelter conditions statewide.

"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."
New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball

Of the total funds, $4 million will be reserved for projects in underserved areas. Eligible municipal and non-profit shelters can apply by December 20. More information is available on the Ag Department’s website.

This funding round continues the state’s effort to support animal care facilities and improve adoption rates across New York.

Bob Beck, a veteran media professional, currently serves as a part-time editor/host at WAER Public Radio and an adjunct professor at Syracuse University. Beck retired as News Director at Wyoming Public Radio in 2022 after 34 years. During his time, Beck won 5 regional Edward R. Murrow awards and 5 Public Media Journalists Association awards for reporting. He also won 11 PMJA awards for the news and public affairs program Open Spaces. He was awarded the Wyoming School Bell award for education reporting and was part of two Emmy Award winning television productions. You can find him on X under the name @butterbob.


Kat is WAER's anchor/producer, delivering local news content and hosting NPR's "All Things Considered." She excels in creating engaging long-form content, managing promotions, and leading audio editing projects. Kat is also instrumental in converting daily news content into digital formats for distribution on WAER.org.