Santa Fe Animal Shelter initiates fundraising campaign

The Santa Fe Animal Shelter & Humane Society is launching a fundraising campaign as it approaches a contract deadline with the city. The shelter faced a $4 million operating deficit last year, and its current emergency contract with the city will end on June 30. CEO Jackie Roach emphasized the need for community support, stating that 75% of the shelter's funding comes from donations. In recent years, the shelter has struggled financially. It has relied on its reserves, which increased due to a $20 million estate donation received in 2023. However, Roach believes using savings for daily operations is not a long-term solution. The shelter is also dealing with a rise in the number of animals, having cared for 3,418 animals in 2024 alone. The shelter's contract with Santa Fe County was extended last October, but the city has not yet announced the bidding process for animal services. Roach expressed concern about this delay, as the city's payment to the shelter does not fully cover housing costs for the animals. To address the financial challenges, Roach has outlined a three-year plan to achieve revenue neutrality. This will involve boosting the shelter's community presence to increase adoptions and reduce care costs for the animals. The shelter also aims to streamline operations and control expenses while maintaining its mission to help animals in need.