The Broome County Humane Society’s capital campaign moved one step closer to completion Monday as Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo announced a $250,000 Assembly Capital Grant for the shelter. Lupardo joined the Humane Society to encourage the community to step up and help finish the campaign.

“As the owner of a rescue kitty, I’m very appreciative of the work the Humane Society does,” said Lupardo. “I’m glad I was able to secure this grant that will help fund the construction of the shelter’s new facility. I would urge members of the community to give anything they can to help get this capital campaign across the finish line.”

“The Humane Society provided care and services for more than 650 animals last year and each year that number grows,” said Humane Society Executive Director Karen Matson. “Our new facility will help us better serve these animals until they find their forever homes. We are grateful for Assemblywoman Lupardo’s support and that of those in the community that have contributed to the shelter.”

The $1.2 million ‘Help Us Help Them’ capital campaign kicked off in April; the grant secured by Lupardo brings the campaign’s total up to about $900,000, leaving the Humane Society about $300,000 short of its goal. Demolition on the shelter’s new site at 167 Conklin Avenue in Binghamton took place last month and an official groundbreaking is scheduled for August. The shelter is accepting donations from the public to help finish off the campaign. To learn more about how you can help, visit the Broome County Humane Society Web site or call 607-724-3709.