Grants for Nonprofit Animal Shelters

Various organizations are dedicated to the welfare of sheltered animals. Since 1877, American Humane has been working to protect animals from cruelty, exploitation, abuse and neglect. The efforts of American Humane extend to farm animals, making sure they are raised in a humane environment. Another organization, United Animal Nations, is committed to improving the quality of life of animals and providing emergency medical care. Some of the grants offered to shelters by these organizations are The Meacham Foundation Memorial Grant, The Second Chance Fund, The LifeLine Rescue Grant and The Foreclosure Pets Grant.

  1. Meacham Foundation Memorial Grant

    • The Meacham Foundation Memorial Grant was established in 1969 to provide funds for expansion and improvement of nonprofit animal shelters. In order to be eligible for this grant, the shelter must have a nonprofit status approved by the IRS; be a member of American Humane; conduct business within the United States; shelter primarily dogs, cats and horses; and have an adoption program for the animals. The funds are destined for equipment for spaying and neutering animals, kennel renovations and the general enrichment of the shelter's environment. The shelter must exhibit a plaque, acknowledging the grant. Twelve months after the grant is awarded, the shelter must submit photographic evidence and a written report of how it used the funds. The review process for this grant takes approximately six months.

    The Second Chance Fund

    • The Second Chance Fund is designed to support shelters with the initial and long-term medical costs for the rehabilitation of abused animals as they are prepared for adoption. The funds are solely intended to cover medical procedures required to heal an animal that has been a victim of abuse. Routine medical procedures, such as spaying, vaccinations and heartworm testing are not covered by this grant. American Humane offers these grants on a case-by-case basis.

    LifeLine Rescue Grant

    • The LifeLine Rescue Grant is offered by United Animal Nations, founded in 1987, for animals who have been rescued from life-threatening conditions, have an immediate need for veterinary care and would not receive treatment otherwise. Eligibility for this grant depends upon the animal's medical urgency and the shelter's financial need. The shelter must also have a sustainable adoption program that provides recovered animals with caring, loving homes. Shelters may download the application directly from the United Animal Nations website.

    Foreclosure Pets Grant

    • The Foreclosure Pets Grant assists shelters with the influx of high volumes of pets who are taken to shelters by families who have lost their homes to foreclosure and can no longer care for them. American Humane directs these grant funds to relieve the expenses incurred in providing medical care and shelter to animals impacted by this situation. As of January of 2010, the maximum amount of Foreclosure Pets Grant money awarded to each shelter is $2,000. The shelter must contact the organization directly to receive an application packet.