Donors pledge more than $25,000 in additional matching funds

Matching donations of $50,000 during Espanola Humane’s first virtual Fur Fest on Aug. 6 helped raise more than $100,000 for Northern New Mexico’s neediest animals.

Several donors were so inspired by the gala’s message that they issued an additional $25,000 challenge through Aug. 16, organizers said. Every donation will be doubled this week, said Bridget Lindquist, the shelter’s director.

“We are so grateful to the community’s response,” Lindquist said. “We hope that this extra time will give others a chance to watch our video and learn more about the lifesaving work that goes on every day at our shelter.”

The 20-minute video of furry inspiration at www.espanolahumane.org features Zelda’s Miraculous Journey, a short film that follows the journey of the young foster pup to her forever home.

The open-admission shelter provides free and low-cost programs in northern Santa Fe and Rio Arriba counties and neighboring pueblo communities of Santa Clara, San Ildefonso and Ohkay Owingeh.

To donate directly, call Karl Ferguson at 505-231-7324.