The Worcester County Humane Society received a notable feather in their cap this week as they became the recipients of a grant from Grammy-winning country singer-song writer Miranda Lambert and the MuttNation Foundation. The WCHS will be sole recipient of the award in the state of Maryland, as the grant aims to lend a financial hand to shelters across America by selecting 50 shelters across 50 states.
“We were surprised and thrilled to receive this gift,” said Kelly Austin, WCHS President of the Board. “This is not a grant that can be applied for so it feels good that out of all the shelters in Maryland, our little shelter in Worcester County stood out to the MuttNation Foundation. Our staff and volunteers do an amazing job and it’s nice for the shelter to have this recognition mostly due in part to their hard work.”
In 2013, the MuttNation Foundation created Mutts Across America:50 Shelters/50 States in an effort to lend a financial hand to 50 shelters across America. Each year, one animal shelter from each state is chosen to receive a minimum of $3000 to help care for their shelter animals. Shelters are chosen by the MuttNation Board of Directors and staff, with well over 100 hours dedicated to finding 50 shelters that align with the MuttNation philosophies. Selection criteria includes adoption rate, volunteerism, fiscal responsibility, and fundraising efforts.
MuttNation was founded in 2007 by Miranda Lambert and her mother, Bev Lambert, with the mission to end animal cruelty, neglect, and homelessness. MuttNation provides assistance to shelters all across America through efforts such as medical treatments, mill rescues, service dog training and placement, legislative changes, spay and neuter campaigns, and more. In addition to Mutts Across America: 50 Shelters/50 States, MuttNation is also host to Cause for Paws, an annual event which has raised over $1.5 million.
The Worcester County Humane Society located on 12330 Eagles Nest Road, Berlin, is a private, nonprofit, no-kill animal shelter that operates primarily on donations. The shelter is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day except Mondays. For more information on becoming a volunteer call 410-213-0146. Follow the shelter on Facebook and Instagram or visit www.worcestercountyhumanesociety.org for updates on available animals and events.
