The Humane Society of Northeast Georgia (HSNEGA) in Gainesville has launched new and expanded several community outreach programs for those in need. The initiative is aimed at supporting pet owners struggling with homelessness, poverty, or limited access to essential pet care resources.
According to a press release, these efforts, rooted in HSNEGA’s mission to keep pets and families together. It focuses on increasing access to veterinary care, food, and education throughout the region.
“Outreach is integral to our mission of helping animals and people live better together,” said Bill Furman, Director of Veterinary Services and Community Outreach at HSNEGA. “Our programs are designed to empower responsible pet owners to care for their animals, even in the face of financial or life challenges. It’s a privilege to serve northeast Georgia in this way.”
Among the new and expanded initiatives:
- Mobile veterinary care: The launch of the Christian-David Healthy Pet Clinic, a mobile unit bringing veterinary services directly to underserved communities.
- Support for unhoused pet owners: On July 5, HSNEGA’s outreach team, in partnership with Santa for the Homeless and Good News at Noon, will provide vaccines, surgeries, and supplies to approximately 20 dogs and 10 cats in a Gainesville homeless encampment.
- Free pet food distribution: Collaborating with Meals on Wheels and NGPG’s monthly food drive, HSNEGA distributes essential pet food to families in need.
- Youth education: Educational workshops for students, conducted in partnership with the Boys and Girls Club of Lake Lanier, promote responsible pet ownership and animal welfare.
Additionally, HSNEGA will host a free or low-cost community vaccine clinic for dogs on Saturday, June 7, at Lakeshore Mall from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Hall County residents will receive services at no cost, while non-residents will be charged $25.
The clinic will offer rabies and DHPP vaccines, deworming, and microchipping. Organizers expect to serve up to 400 dogs. A similar event for cats is planned for later this year.
“This year alone, we’ve already supported over 1,500 animals through our outreach efforts,” said Andrea Marin, Community Outreach Manager at HSNEGA. “We are incredibly thankful for the partnerships and community backing that help us keep pets where they belong, at home, with the people who love them.”
For more information about HSNEGA’s programs and how to support their work, visit www.hsnega.org.
Founded in 1913, the Humane Society of Northeast Georgia (HSNEGA) is a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the welfare of animals and strengthening the human-animal bond across the region.
