[1]The Humane Society is currently housing approximately 200 cats. Photo by Catherine Coleman
By Morgan Davy
For the fourth consecutive year, the Quinte Humane Society will host a concert to raise funds for its organization.
The doors of the Belleville Fish and Game Club will open at 7 p.m. Friday and the show will start at 8 p.m.
With the purchase of a $40 ticket, you can see tribute artists, have hot and cold hors d’oeuvres and participate in a silent auction and 50/50 draw. Cheryl Lepine, public relations representative for the humane society, said the event is meant to raise money to support the many animals they house over the winter.
“Daily expenses are sometimes exceeding $1,000, so we need funds. Especially in the winter months ,where we have to have the heat on a little more and it’s more expensive to feed and keep everybody safe and healthy,” said Lepine.
The shelter currently houses one pig, approximately 35 dogs and about 200 cats. There is also a space for small wild animals if they are in need of care.
Despite the numerous volunteers and employees that help keep the shelter running smoothly, there is only so much money and space that they can offer.
“Unfortunately, the problem is that people in the community are not getting their pet spayed or neutered, so they’re continually having babies,” said Lepine.
The goal for this fundraiser is to bring in enough money for every animal at the shelter to live comfortably until next year rolls around, said Lepine.
“We are hoping for a great crowd from our community. We have 250 tickets for sale and are hoping to raise between $8,000 to $10,000,” she said.
Tickets can be ordered over the phone or purchased ahead of time at QHS, Second Debut, Little Stinkers or Harmony Music.
The shelter, located at 527 Avonlough Road, is a neighbour to Loyalist College. Lepine says she hopes to see more students take initiative and volunteer.
“What we would love to see is for the younger people in our community to get involved with the humane society. We would love and welcome all of the Loyalist students to come by and dog walk, to help with cleaning, and also to just be there to support us with fundraising events,” said Lepine.