HARRISBURG, Pa. — Editor's note: The above video is from Dec. 9, 2023.
The Humane Society of Harrisburg Area (HSHA) and Brandywine Valley SPCA (BVSPCA) today announced a new partnership with the goal of turning the HSHA into a no-kill shelter by the end of the year.
Shared resources, management and governing oversight will begin immediately under Adam Lamb’s leadership for both BVSPCA and HSHA, the agencies said.
“Joining the efforts of our dedicated staff and volunteers with the expertise of the Brandywine Valley SPCA will help us elevate our level of care,” Aspasia Yeager, HSHA interim executive director, said. “By combining our shared mission and passions, we can continue to grow, save more lives, and reach more of our community with vital resources, while operating more efficiently to keep the focus on the animals who are counting on us.”
The partnership is part of BVSPCA's effort to expand no-kill initiatives in Pennsylvania. Currently, the HSHA says it has found homes for more than 80% of the nearly 2,000 homeless animals who turn to it each year. The BVSPCA maintains a 93% live release rate, and it hopes to bring this standard to the Harrisburg area.
“There is an opportunity for growth and a need in this area of Pennsylvania, and we are committed to taking the steps necessary to bring our proven track record as a leader in animal welfare, and no-kill mission to this community where there is still work to be done,” said Lamb, BVSPCA and HSHA chief executive officer. “We are counting on those in the Central Pennsylvania community to embrace the partnership by supporting HSHA through adopting and donating, not only financially, but also with their time by serving as volunteers and fosters.”
BVSPCA helped lead the effort to make Delaware the first no-kill state in the country.
“Brandywine Valley SPCA has a proven track record of successful life-saving programming and helping many animal welfare organizations around the country,” said Julie Castle, chief executive officer of Best Friends Animal Society. "It’s great to see organizations like Brandywine support community, and state-wide no kill success as they continue to grow. We commend both the Brandywine Valley SPCA and the Humane Society of Harrisburg Area for the vision and opportunities they are mutually creating for Harrisburg and the state of Pennsylvania."
Both organizations have been helping animals for over 100 years.