WINDSOR, ONTARIO – The Windsor/Essex County Humane Society (WECHS) is proud to announce a generous $25,000 contribution from the Eric S. Margolis Foundation to support the organization’s innovative Helping Paws Program, a community initiative that delivers essential veterinary services directly to vulnerable and underserved pet owners throughout Windsor-Essex.

The announcement comes ahead of the next Helping Paws Mobile Outreach Clinic, taking place August 24 in partnership with Windsor Essex Community Housing Corporation (WECHC). The clinic will provide free preventative veterinary care and support services to residents who may otherwise face barriers to accessing care for their pets.

Helping Paws was created to address the growing need for accessible veterinary services among individuals and families facing financial hardship, housing insecurity, transportation challenges, and other socioeconomic barriers. Through partnerships with community organizations, the program provides wellness exams, vaccinations, microchipping, wellness medications, referrals for spay/neuter services, education, and connections to additional animal welfare resources.

“Pets are family, yet many people in our community are struggling to afford even the most basic veterinary care,” said Lynnette Bain, Executive Director of the Windsor/Essex County Humane Society. “Thanks to the generosity of the Eric S. Margolis Foundation, we can continue reaching families where they are and ensuring that pets receive the care they need to remain healthy and safely at home. This funding helps remove barriers and strengthens the bond between people and their companion animals.”

The funding from the Eric S. Margolis Foundation will support the continuation and expansion of outreach clinics and veterinary services for underserved populations across Windsor-Essex, allowing the Humane Society to assist more families and pets through the remainder of the year.

“We are deeply grateful to the Eric S. Margolis Foundation for recognizing the importance of accessible veterinary care,” added Bain.

The August 24 Helping Paws Mobile Outreach Clinic is one of several community-based clinics planned this year as the Humane Society continues to expand access to veterinary services in neighbourhoods with the greatest need.

About the Windsor/Essex County Humane Society

Founded in 1926, the Windsor/Essex County Humane Society is a registered charitable organization dedicated to promoting animal welfare through sheltering, adoption, veterinary services, education, and community outreach programs. In 2024, the organization cared for nearly 14,000 animals across Windsor and Essex County.

About the Eric S. Margolis Foundation

The Eric S. Margolis Foundation supports charitable initiatives that create positive and lasting impacts in communities, including programs that advance animal welfare and improve quality of life for vulnerable populations.