EAST CENTRAL — The North East SPCA is opening their doors with a gala later this month, and then will begin operations in the area.
According to Pat Rumberger, board member in charge of fundraising in Melfort, the gala serves two purposes: the first is to build up community excitement.
“It’s a grand opening, we want people to be excited about it and we’re hoping to have most of the communities and RMs represented with people from their councils,” Rumberger said.
The second reason is for the funds.
“It’s a fundraiser, as it will be continuous it’s important to note that SPCAs do not get any support from the government, that it’s funded directly through fundraising and donations.”
The North East SPCA will cover north up to Choiceland, east to Carrot River, south to Porcupine Plain, as well as Naicum, St. Brieux and Lake Lenore.
The Harry and Eve Vickar Shelter will be located at 665 Hamilton Avenue, in Melfort.
“It’s the newest shelter in the province, and it’s covering a huge area,” Rumberger said. “It’s much needed. It’s been in the works for a long, long time – and reality is coming. It will be opened soon, the floors are getting done right now and the doors are going in.”
The ribbon cutting takes place on Sept. 27 at 4:30 p.m. at the shelter. At 6 p.m., the reception will start at the Kerry Vickar Center, with dinner being served at 7 p.m. During the evening there will be entertainment as well as an open and silent auction.
The entertainment will include a local pianist, and The Derksen Brothers.
Tickets can be purchased at Home Hardware in Melfort, as well as the Quarter Inch Quilt Shop in Melfort.
If any businesses are interested in donating items to the auction they can contact 306-752-7722.
Rumberger said the NESPCA is always looking for volunteers in the region, and encourages community members to reach out to them.
“Hopefully we won’t have as many small animals running about, hopefully we can make life better for them and give a lot of them a second chance and help them find a loving home.”
