NEW ORLEANS (press release) – Animal Rescue New Orleans (ARNO) announces the groundbreaking ceremony for its new shelter location, a significant step forward in providing enhanced facilities and care for animals in need. This has been made possible by a generous donation from Frank and Paulette Stewart. The public is invited to attend the ceremony on Saturday, Feb. 24, at 2 p.m. at the new shelter site, 160 Brookhollow Esp., Elmwood, LA 70123.
This groundbreaking marks a significant milestone for ARNO, symbolizing the organization’s commitment to creating a compassionate and modern facility that reflects its mission.
Since 2006, ARNO has operated a shelter out of an old warehouse in constant need of repair. Despite the constraints facing the shelter such as the absence of central air and heat and limited space for accommodating the increasing number of homeless animals, over 12,500 animals have found refuge at the shelter and have been placed in loving homes. ARNO was founded by volunteers as a grassroots organization in the wake of Hurricane Katrina and has never received funding outside of donations and grants. For the volunteers, staff, board members and surrounding community, a permanent building that allows for a comfortable and nurturing environment has been the long-term goal.
“For ARNO to finally have a permanent home, a facility equipped to be a true animal shelter with all of the amenities and resources needed to care for our pets is a dream come true,” said Kathy Perra, president of ARNO. “For the first time, we will have central air conditioning and heat, outdoor exercise yards and indoor play areas, and dedicated spaces for adoptions, training, medical care and so much more.”
The new shelter will allow for a 15% increase in capacity for both dogs and cats with the potential for a 30% increase in capacity down the line. Continued support from volunteers and supporters will enable the shelter to reach this potential.
Construction on the new facility is underway and expected to be completed by Fall 2024. For more information about ARNO’s mission and how to support its cause, please visit www.animalrescueneworleans.org.
