All hands on deck for Humboldt and District SPCA

The staff, board and volunteers at the Humboldt and District SPCA are especially busy this spring and are looking for helping hands. The newly acquired facilities just south of their current location is almost set for some creative retrofitting, so it’s all hands on deck. As well, the organization is heading into a busy fundraising season with campaigns and events, and it’s counting on the ever-present support of areas helpers and donors to pitch in for the benefit of their wonderful animals.  

“We’re really excited about the purchase of our new facility and the land that goes with it,” says Joanne Koski, who is on the SPCA Board. “It required us to take out a mortgage, and to preserve a bit of an operating budget. We have utility expenses at two facilities, higher insurance until the move, and of course the continual animal care costs.” 

Given the doubling of some expenses, the finances are a bit tight, says Koski, but there are a few initiatives that will speed the move up and tide the organization over during this key transition.  

“Our most immediate need will be getting volunteer help at the new site. We will soon be building some of the walls and kennels, so we certainly could use some people with experience with a hammer. As well, we’ll be painting and doing general cleaning, so anybody who has a few free hours can contact the shelter or a board member. 

The other main ingredient is funding during this crucial time, and there are upcoming opportunities to show generosity and have a great time doing it.  

First up is the May Building Campaign, a fundraising appeal to help with the renovation and transition expenses. Koski says all donations are eligible for tax receipts. Whether from businesses, corporations or individuals, all donations are appreciated no matter how big or small.  

The SPCA Online Auction starts in May, and the Online 50/50 Lottery is currently on the go.  

The next big event comes up on May 3 where the Humboldt SPCA partners with the BV Inn for a fundraising steak supper. A door prize and silent auction will also be part of the event. 

“We are hoping that people will pick up advance tickets so we know how many people we can plan for,” Koski says. Tickets are available at the SPCA Shelter on Highway 5, through any of the board members or from Prairie Floral. Tickets are $25 each for a meal at the 19 plus event. Donations for silent auction items are gratefully accepted.  

To top it all off, the Humboldt SPCA will be joining the car bingo circuit with an event at the Humboldt Uniplex on May 23. With the car bingo season soon upon us, aficionados will have another event to add to the calendar for a great cause.  

For tickets to events, to volunteer or to make donations, get in touch with the Humboldt and District SPCA at (306) 682-5550 or email hdspca@sasktel.net.