State approves $500K for upgrades to Orleans County Animal Shelter

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 24 May 2026 at 8:19 am

ALBION – The state has approved a $500,000 grant for Orleans County to upgrade the animal shelter at the intersection of Route 31A and Route 98.

The funding will go for kennel installation, upgraded fencing and HVAC systems, structural repairs and drainage improvements.

Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the grant as part of $10 million awarded to 31 animal care organizations across the state through the eighth round of the New York State Companion Animal Capital Projects Fund. The grants were announced on Friday.

“From cats and dogs to small animals like rabbits, guinea pigs, and more, pets are family,” Governor Hochul said. “Many of these beloved companion animals start their journey at an animal shelter or humane society, so I’m proud to continue supporting these essential organizations through New York’s historic Companion Animal Capital Projects Fund. This funding awarded today is going to make a real difference, helping to better equip these vital facilities with the tools they need to keep our furry friends safe and well cared for as they wait to meet their new families.”

Since the 2017 launch of the Companion Animal Capital Projects Fund program, the state has dedicated over $48 million to the program.