NH Humane Society receives grant for animal care facility enhancements from Franklin Savings Bank

LACONIA — The New Hampshire Humane Society (NHHS) has received a grant of $3,350 from the Franklin Savings Bank (FSB) Fund for Community Advancement. The NHHS utilized the funds for needed improvements and renovations to their animal care facility building.

Grant funds covered costs associated with roofing needs and gate systems for added safety while utilizing outside activity pens used by animals awaiting adoption. The new roof structures now protect animals residing at NHHS from the elements while still allowing them outside time away from the noise and stress of their indoor kennel housing.

In 2009, nearly 600 stray dogs and puppies arrived at the NHHS animal shelter and the number of stray animals continues to increase exponentially over time. “We are truly obligated to these homeless, unfortunate animals to provide appropriate living quarters for them until adoption day. Additionally, safety of staff, visitors, and animals remains a priority for our organization," said Executive Director of NHHS Mary Di Maria. "We are very grateful to Franklin Savings Bank for their support.”

“In these economic times, we understand that assistance with pets is needed now more than ever and we are happy to be of some assistance,” said Jeff Savage, FSB president & CEO.

NHHS pledges to provide care, comfort, all medical necessities, behavioral evaluation, enrichment, and rehabilitative care for animals. Dedicated staff and volunteers go to great lengths caring for injured or stray animals. It is their passion to ensure that animals in their care have access to the best possible future.

The Franklin Savings Bank Fund for Community Advancement grant was formed in 1997 to provide support for substantial projects that enhance the lives of people in the communities that make up the primary market area of the Bank. The Fund has awarded over $628,000 to local organizations since its inception.

Applications for the upcoming grant period are due by 2 p.m. on December 31. For more information on how to apply for a grant award, call Dorothy J. Savery at 934-8316 or visit www.fsbnh.com.

CAPTION: Pictured (l-r) are Marylee Gorham-Waterman, Mary Di Maria of the NHHS, and Jeff Savage of Franklin Savings Bank. (Courtesy photo)