September 3, 2021 – BELLEVILLE, ONTARIO 

Humane Society Hastings Prince Edward (HSHPE) announced today it is proceeding with Phase 2 of its 3-phase construction project at 34 Wallbridge-Loyalist Road in Belleville. The decision means HSHPE’s Community and Education Centre will be built and completed together with Phase 1, The Animal Care and Adoption Centre, which broke ground in July 2021.

“A lot of things have come together to make this happy announcement possible,” said Donna Endicott, Chair of HSHPE’s Board of Directors. “The combination of a recent anonymous gift and other support, coupled with construction savings generated by TaskForce Engineering and the loans from the cities of Belleville and Quinte West gives HSHPE the confidence to move forward with the construction of both Phases I and 2 at this time.”

The Community and Education Centre, which will directly adjoin the west side of The Animal Care and Adoption Centre, will provide space for HSHPE programs and community events as well as earned revenue to support the care of animals.

“We’re really excited to be able to get started on Phase 2 now, one year ahead of schedule,” said Hazzem Koudsi, Chair of HSHPE’s Building Committee. “Not only will this save thousands of dollars in construction costs and avoid rising material costs, but it will also allow us to offer much-needed community-based programming as early as next summer.”

Greg Sudds, Chair of the Capital Campaign added, “This is exciting news – the Centre will be a great resource for the entire community and I encourage everyone in Hastings and Prince Edward Counties to support its construction by considering making a one-time gift. Your support will be very appreciated and will benefit both ends of the leash.” Visit ittakesheart.ca or contact the Campaign Manager, J-C D’Amours at 613-813-1917.

Phases 1 and 2 are expected to be completed in Summer 2022.