Humane Society donor group

The Humane Society of Morgan County announces that a small group of generous supporters have donated $5,000 to create a special "Challenge Grant" for the community to match or exceed. These supporters are calling upon individuals, businesses, churches and civic organizations to take part in this challenge to help the animal shelter located on Route 522, south of Berkeley Springs.

These supporters urge the community to send whatever donations they can to try and match or beat their initial $5,000 grant in order to help the Humane Society through this financially-difficult winter period, to raise the community's awareness of the work done by the Humane Society, and to encourage a regular funding stream of donations throughout the year. The challenge kick-off is Wednesday, February 21. The Society hopes to reach or exceed its goal of $10,000 by March 17, St. Patrick's Day. Hence, this fundraiser has been called, "The St. Patrick's Day Matching Challenge."

The Humane Society requires a minimum monthly income of $6,000 throughout the year to meet its operating budget. Those funds pay for utility costs, veterinary services, medicine, cleaning supplies, insurance, food, mailing and advertising expenses, shelter maintenance and repair, and staff wages. Many local volunteers give of their time and labor in addition to giving much needed funds. Without this monthly income the Humane Society cannot continue to provide this vital service to the county, and the animal shelter could no longer exist. The Humane Society receives no state or local government funding and receives no funds from the Humane Society of the United States.

To participate in the challenge, the community is asked to send their donation checks payable to: The Humane Society of Morgan County, PO Box 705, Berkeley Springs, WV 25411. Notate on the check that the donation is for the "St. Patrick's Day Challenge." The Humane Society is a 501(c)(3) Charitable Organization and all donations are tax deductible. Weekly updates on the status of donations will be posted on the Humane Society website: www.hsmc-wv.org.