The Greater Edwardsville Area Community Foundation recently presented a check to the Metro East Humane Society for a grant awarded to them to help build a critical retaining wall last Fall.

One of the many animals served by MEHS.

The Greater Edwardsville Area Community Foundation (GEACF) awarded a $5,000 grant to Metro East Humane Society (MEHS).  “We are very grateful to the Foundation for their support,” said Kathy Turner, Executive Director of MEHS.  “Because of the generosity of organizations like the Greater Edwardsville Area Community Foundation we were able to build a critical retaining wall at the back of our property that houses our shelter located in Edwardsville.”

A charitable trust that receives, manages, and distributes tax-deductible charitable contributions; the GEACF is committed to providing the community with options for donating their money locally.   The Foundation receives contributions from private citizens, local businesses and other organizations interested in funding the charitable needs of the Edwardsville/Glen Carbon area.

The recent grant awarded to the Metro East Humane Society helped build a retaining wall system after the shelter and kennels housing many animals started to shift due to erosion.  “It was a big project, but we knew it had to be done,” said Turner.

Chairman of the Greater Edwardsville Area Foundation’s Board of Directors, Donna Bardon, said the GEACF Board was pleased to support a program like the Metro East Humane Society.  “Our organization is impressed with how the Metro East Humane Society works hard to help so many animals in need.  After touring the facility and seeing the issues at hand, we knew we could help make a difference.”  Bardon said.

GEACF Grant Committee Chairperson, Patty Thiede added, “MEHS has to serve more animals than usual due to our economy.  Families are giving up their beloved pets because they can no longer afford to care for them and feed them.  It’s sad to see, but it is wonderful that the Metro East Humane Society takes these animals in and helps them find a new home.”

The Greater Edwardsville Area Community Foundation is dedicated to the enhancement and betterment of the quality of life in the communities of Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, Hamel, Moro, Dorsey, Worden and the surrounding areas.

During 2009, The GEACF distributed more than $47,000 in awards, grants and scholarships from the General Fund to benefit local charitable organizations and deserving students. The Foundation also disbursed an additional $297,800 in awards, grants, and scholarships from funds established by local citizens, businesses and organizations.

Since its inception in 1997, The GEACF has distributed more than $4.6 million to charitable causes.

To find out more about the services the Metro East Humane Society provides to local animals contact Kathy Turner at 656-4405.  You may also visit them online at www.mehs.org.