Cook County Announces $8 million Grant Program to Increase Animal Shelter Space

Cook County Animal and Rabies Control (CCARC) is now accepting applications for its Housing Cook County’s Animals grant program. Housing Cook County’s Animals is an $8 million program that covers the costs of planning and construction of animal shelter facilities in Cook County. The goal of the program is to expand the capacity of existing nonprofit and governmental animal shelters to address current overcrowding, while providing housing for animals impounded by the CCARC.

“It is vital that we safeguard all animal residents of Cook County have a safe shelter in times of need,” Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle said. “The Housing Cook County’s Animals grant program will ensure that animals are not turned away because of overcrowded shelters.”

The Housing Cook County’s Animals program will work with shelters to construct state-of-the-art shelter facilities for animals, utilizing best practices in shelter management and construction.

 “I see the need for more shelter space every day,” said Dr. Thomas Wake, DMV, CCARC administrator. “My Department is committed to providing the most innovative and safe home for our animals in need.”

Applications are due by February 28, 2020 at 5 p.m. For more information about the grant program and an application, visit http://cookcountyil.gov/AnimalShelterGrant.