On Saturday, May 23, animal lovers gathered at the home of Katie and Jim Robinson in historic Lawrence Park West in Bronxville in support of the new Yonkers Animal Shelter. Debbie and Joe Cianculli cohosted the event with around 100 guests in attendance.

The new shelter, which is due to break ground later this year, is desperately needed to replace the dilapidated, woefully inadequate facility that exists today. Built in 1948, the focus then was animal control, not adoption. Although the staff does its best to keep the shelter clean the cages are cramped and the surroundings beyond depressing.There is no grassy area for the dogs to exercise. The cat rooms are small with cages piled on top of one another. In this unappealing setting it’s easy to see why many people who might want to adopt simply stay away.

A public/private partnership, of $2,000,000 needs to be raised from private donations in order for this state of the art facility to become a reality

The new shelter will be easily accessible right off of I-87 next to Stew Leonards, nearly double the size with room for 50 percent more animals, and contain inviting public spaces to showcase the animals for adoption.

Fundraising is ongoing with cocktail receptions and events planned throughout the year. Kids in the community have also been making a difference by having their birthday parties to benefit the shelter by asking for donations to help build the new shelter instead of gifts. All birthday kids will have an inscribed brick paver which will be a permanent part of the new shelter. Pet Goods, in Scarsdale are doing a point of sale donation for the shelter also.

Any and all donations are greatly appreciated. To read more about the plans for the new shelter or to make a donation please visit www.newyonkersanimalshelter.org.