The Windsor/Essex County Humane Society (WECHS) proudly kicked off its 100th anniversary celebrations this week, marking a century of service, compassion, and community support for animals and the people who love them.
Founded in 1926, the organization has spent the last 100 years evolving to meet the changing needs of animals and the community. The media kickoff event celebrated this milestone while highlighting the impactful programs, partnerships, and initiatives shaping the next chapter of animal welfare.
A key focus of the event was to highlight recent accomplishments such as the Helping Paws Mobile Veterinary Clinic, a mobile outreach program designed to support pet owners experiencing financial hardship.
Helping Paws has already hosted two clinics, providing veterinary care to more than 95 animals, with additional clinics planned throughout the year. The program helps keep pets healthy, housed, and with the families who love them.
“We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished in our first 100 years, but even more excited about what’s ahead,” said Lynnette Bain, Executive Director of the WECHS. “Programs like Helping Paws show what’s possible when community partners come together to remove barriers to care.”
The organization also announced an expanded adoption partnership with local businesses and PetSmart Charities, making it easier than ever for animals to find loving homes.
In 2026, the community can expect frequent offsite adoption pop-ups, bringing adoptable animals directly into neighbourhoods across Essex County.
The Humane Society has also begun making significant upgrades within the shelter, with more improvements planned in the months ahead.
Recent investments include enhancements to our animal care areas — most notably the renovation of all seven cat intake rooms, made possible through the community’s generous support during the Cozy Cats Giving Tuesday campaign.
These upgrades are part of a broader long‑term vision to modernize our facility and further elevate the standard of care for animals.
Animal enrichment and welfare continue to be a priority, with expanded training opportunities and new enrichment programs underway.
This year will also see the pilot launch of a youth volunteer program, aimed at inspiring the next generation of animal advocates while supporting positive outcomes for animals in care.
To celebrate its history, the organization has launched an updated 100 year-celebration logo, a fresh look for the website highlighting 100 years of impact, along with a newly unveiled in-shelter mural that reflects on its journey from past to present.
Looking to the future, the WECHS officially launched its Fuel the Future campaign, with a goal of raising $100,000 to fund two new animal rescue and relief vehicles. These vehicles will support emergency rescues, animal welfare responses, outreach initiatives, and mobile veterinary clinics across the community.
“As we honour our past, we’re focused on building a future where every animal has access to care, safety, and compassion,” said Bain. “Fuel the Future will help ensure we can continue showing up for animals and our community for the next 100 years.”
For more information about the 100th anniversary, upcoming events, or how to support Fuel the Future, visit www.windsorhumane.org.
