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SOMBA K'E/YELLOWKNIFE
Construction on the new SPCA shelter began on Sept. 7 in the Engle Business District, however, the work may come to a grinding halt if the SPCA is unable to meet their fundraising goals by the time phase one of the construction is completed next month.

Construction for Yellowknife's new animal shelter began on Sept. 7. However, more funding is still needed to finish the project. - Jack Danylchuk/NNSL photo

"Right now, we don't have enough money to finish phase two so we're trying to get enough money to complete that so that (Clark Builders) can move forward," said NWT SPCA president Nicole Spencer.

Phase one of the project is to complete the foundation and develop the site, which was previously undeveloped.

"The reason we've done it in phases is because the SPCA doesn't have the funds to do the whole project," said Dave Brothers, vice-president of Northern operations at Clark Builders. "It's actually dependent on their fundraising to be able to carry it on into phase two and three. So if their money rolls in from sponsors, then they can proceed with the second phase, which will be the structure and getting the building enclosed."

To raise the $300,000 needed for the project to go forward as planned, the SPCA has launched a new sponsorship initiative this week. Yellowknife businesses are being contacted and sent a sponsorship package asking them to either donate $10,000 to sponsor one of 30 dog apartments or $5,000 to sponsor one of 10 cat condos going into the new facility. Sponsors' names will then be displayed above the apartment or condo they helped create.

Sponsors who wish to contribute a smaller amount will go on the "wall of heroes" to be displayed in the new shelter.

"We're really hoping that the local businesses are going to step up and help out," said Spencer.

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