The Heart of Louisiana Humane Society in Pineville, La. has been a beacon of hope for the community’s stray animals, but a recent visit from a national animal advocacy group has brought new energy to the cause.
Jordan’s Way Brings Hope to the Region
A local animal advocacy group, Jordan’s Way, made a stop in Central Louisiana on April 21 to help raise funds for the Heart of Louisiana Humane Society. Kris Rotonda, President of the nonprofit, hosted a three-hour live fundraiser on Facebook, encouraging viewers to donate to the shelter’s mission.
For Rotonda, it’s more than a cause; it’s personal. “My dog, Jordan, was in a shelter for four years before I adopted her,” he said. “She passed away after 10 years.” This experience has driven Rotonda to dedicate his life to helping other animals in need.
Shelter Operations and Funding
The funds raised during the fundraiser will go directly toward caring for the animals currently in the shelter’s care. According to Kristy Royal, Vice President of the Heart of Louisiana Humane Society, the shelter is not funded by the federal government or the city, and everything it does is by donations.
- Every dollar counts
- Funds will be used to care for the animals currently in the shelter
- Shelter is not funded by the federal government or the city
- Donations are essential to the shelter’s operation
However, Royal noted that despite the generosity of their donors, the shelter still faces significant challenges. “We average 15 hundred to 2,000 animals saved each year, and we’ve had fewer than 10 fosters over the past two years,” she said. “We can always use more.” This highlights the need for continued support and donations to ensure the shelter’s continued operations.
Addressing the Region’s Stray Overpopulation Problem
Caitlin Hemphill, President of the organization, emphasized the importance of spay and neuter education to address the region’s stray overpopulation problem. “If people don’t become more responsible… animals die every week because they’re not spayed or neutered,” Hemphill said. “It’s simple. We’re lucky to have Magnolia Spay and Neuter right here in our community, a low-cost clinic that can make a big difference.”
| Stray Overpopulation Statistics | Explanation |
|---|---|
| 30 to 50 messages per day about stray, injured, or abused animals | “The community doesn’t see what we see on a daily basis,” said Royal. “They may see a stray dog here or there. We get 30 to 50 messages every day about stray, injured, or abused animals. Puppies left in ditches, animals abandoned with no momma.” |
Community Support and the Future
The event brought together animal lovers from across Cenla who participated in fun challenges, games, and donation drives with the goal of raising $15,000. Royal said every dollar will help meet a need most people never see.
“The community doesn’t see what we see on a daily basis,” said Royal. Puppies left in ditches, animals abandoned with no momma.”
The donation link will remain live on Facebook for the next ten days, until May 1, if you would like to support the cause.
