Local bands, vendors and supporters joined The Hudson Valley Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (HVSPCA) in their annual Donation and Adoption Celebration.

The shelter, located at 940 Little Britain Road, asked supporters to bring various types of bedding for the animals and welcomed money donations. Food and treats were also asked to be donated as well.

Paul Teutul Sr., founder of Orange County Choppers, sits on the board of directors for the shelter, who helped in organizing the event. Jim Kerr of Orange County Choppers and the HVSPCA and Stephen Gamma both expressed their gratitude for the support and what the importance of the event does for the shelter.

“What we’re hoping to do is not only raise money and awareness for the shelter but also to get some of these great animals, the dogs, the cats adopted and let people know about the shelter and what they do here,” Kerr said.

According to Kerr, the shelter is a no kill shelter. This means that the shelter will not put any of the animals down and the shelter is helping these animals find their forever homes.

According to Gamma, the staff that oversee and maintain the shelter are all volunteers.

For Gamma, the most important factor out of today is to get the animals adopted. At one event last year, Gamma remembers a young German Shepherd with hip dysplasia that after some time at the shelter was adopted. That adoption for Gamma was the highlight of the entire day for him.

Matt Hughes, manager for the HVSPCA is grateful for the local support for the organization.

“We have such a great community behind us here that every time we’re in need or when we do something the community rallies around us,” Hughes said. “We’re truly blessed to be in such a great community here.”

For the last 13 to 14 years, Hughes’s commitment to the well-being of the animals has been his top priority. In his adult life, he has adopted several animals to be a part of his family.

Hughes also credits the work that has been done by the volunteer staff. Without their help and constant support for the HVSPCA, the organization would not be able to run. “Could always use more volunteers,” Hughes said.