Funds will help build the most innovative shelter facility in Lebanon
New York, NY (September 3, 2019) – This week, SPCA International (SPCAI) will award its largest grant in the organization’s history to Beirut for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (BETA) in support of BETA’s capital campaign to build a pioneering shelter in Lebanon’s biggest city.
Since 2004, BETA has been working to create a cruelty-free city through education and activism. BETA rescues dogs, cats and wildlife from life-threatening danger. Once in their care, they work tirelessly to place animals in loving homes locally and around the world. The organization also conducts trap, neuter and release programs to reduce the overpopulation of stray dogs and cats in Beirut. BETA is currently caring for over 800 homeless dogs and cats.
In September 2018, BETA received an eviction notice from their current shelter site; putting all the animals in their care at risk once again. In early 2019, BETA received permitting approval for a new shelter location but the land is entirely undeveloped. BETA has until December 2019 to build a new facility and move their animal population.
The new shelter has been designed in accordance with international standards. Modeled after a world-renowned American shelter, the new facility is designed to increase adoption rates, run sustainably and be an example for others in the region to follow.
SPCA International has been partnering with BETA since 2016. This grant in the amount of $100,000 is the largest SPCAI has ever awarded.
“We are proud to give BETA $100,000 for their innovative new shelter. Their task ahead is difficult and their timeline is tight. We hope this grant will help propel them toward the finish line and inspire others to give generously,” explains Meredith Ayan, Executive Director, SPCA International.
The grant will be announced at BETA’s annual fundraising gala in Beirut, Lebanon, on September 5th, 2019. SPCA International’s team will be in attendance to present the award during the event.
The funding is distributed through SPCAI’s Shelter Support Fund which supports and partners with underfunded animal welfare organizations in the U.S. and worldwide to increase their impact. So far in 2019, SPCAI has awarded 48 grants and more than $250,000. Since 2007, SPCAI has assisted animal shelters and rescue groups in every U.S. state and over 60 countries around the world.
For more information about the gala or to attend, please visit: https://betadonations.com/collections/frontpage/products/beta-s-13th-annual-gala-dinner-at-sursock-palace (Press passes available upon request.)
About SPCA International:
SPCA International (https://www.spcai.org/about-spcai/) is a global animal welfare organization with a mission that is simple, but vast: to advance the safety and well-being of animals. Through outreach, rescue and education programs SPCA International spearheads lifesaving initiatives and assists grassroots animal advocates worldwide.
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