Shelter donations & adoptables
A proposal to allow tax‑deductible donations for local animal shelters is advancing to a board—potentially increasing funding for shelter operations. Nationally, adoptable pets like Selma and Harley were spotlighted this week at Griffin Pond Animal Shelter in 'Pets of the Week' coverage ( ).
At a recent Citrus County Commission meeting, Commissioner Rebecca Bays suggested creating a formal procedure to let residents make tax‑deductible donations specifically to support the county’s new animal services facility. (chronicleonline.com)) The commission approved construction of the new Citrus County Animal Services facility on March 10, 2026, after selecting a lowest construction bid of $18.8 million and applying a 10% contingency to set the total project cost at about $20.7 million. (352today.com)) County officials report $4.7 million already committed from private donations, and state Sen. Ralph Massullo has pledged $500,000 toward the shelter project. (352today.com)) Commissioners authorized up to $15 million in bond financing to cover the remaining balance, and discussion at recent meetings included forming a nonprofit to solicit gifts — Commissioner Bays reportedly offered $1,000 to seed fundraising. (naturecoaster.com)) The Scranton Times‑Tribune’s "Pets of the Week" featured Selma, identified as a petite, 6‑year‑old domestic longhair described as “very sweet” and compatible with other cats. (thetimes-tribune.com)) The same feature described Harley as a 50‑pound, 4‑year‑old dog who is “good with kids,” selective with other dogs, and noted that Harley’s adoption fee for the Griffin Pond listing is fully sponsored. (thetimes-tribune.com)) Griffin Pond Animal Shelter — the Humane Society of Lackawanna County — lists its location in Clarks Summit, adoption hours as noon–3 p.m. daily (closed Tuesdays), and a main phone contact of (570) 586‑3700. (griffinpondanimalshelter.com)) The shelter identifies itself as a registered 501(c)(3) serving Lackawanna and Wyoming counties, reports caring for roughly 250 animals on a typical day, and has spring fundraising events scheduled including a Second Chance Gala on April 25, 2026 and Mega Prize Bingo on May 17, 2026. (adoptapet.com))
