The Windsor/Essex County Humane Society has reached its $100,000 fundraising goal.
The organization launched the campaign in January to celebrate its 100th anniversary in the community.
The funds from the Fuel the Future campaign will go toward purchasing two new vehicles to support emergency animal rescues, frontline investigations and response by Animal Protection Officers.
The Humane Society said it reached its goal in large part to a donation from Tony and Mary Pattinson.
“We've always been dog lovers,” says Mary Pattinson. “At every major event in our lives, there have been dogs standing by us. We feel that not every human should have a companion animal, but every dog or cat deserves a loving and safe home. We hope our donation will help animals get there. This donation is in honour of Muffer, Tasha, Lucy, Bella, Sophie, Ollie and Jack who have all made our lives so much better.”
The conclusion of the campaign was announced at the unveiling of a centennial garden in Jackson Park.
"Reliable transportation is not a luxury—it's a lifeline," said Lynnette Bain, Executive Director of the WECHS. "Thanks to the generosity of Tony and Mary Pattinson, along with the many donors who supported this campaign, we can continue responding quickly when animals need help, expanding access to veterinary care, and ensuring lifesaving services reach pets and people throughout our community."
The centennial garden will be on display throughout the summer.
"We are incredibly proud to celebrate 100 years of serving animals and the people who care about them," said Bain. "The centennial garden is a beautiful way to commemorate this milestone and reflect on the thousands of animals whose lives have been changed through the support of our community."
