After 120 years operating out of a former orphanage in Orchard Knob, the Humane Educational Society is finally moving into a new facility that is specially designed for animals.
Throughout this week the organization is moving in phases into the $13 million facility on 6.8 acres near Amnicola Highway and Highway 153.
Named for donors John and Trish Foy, the 32,000-square-foot Foy Animal Shelter is set to open to the public Monday, Jan. 18.
“I think for the public the main change will be that it’s such a bright and pleasant place for people and animals,” said Rebecca Bryan, interim director of the Humane Educational Society. “Our old shelter is just completely falling apart.”
The former facility was wrought with issues including a leaky roof, crumbling kennel walls and constant air conditioning problems, among many others, Bryan said.