Chair’s Message On October 4, 2022, we celebrated the grand opening of our new HSHPE building. Joined by a crowd of supporters, dignitaries, staff, volunteers and Board of Directors, the opening marked the culmination of a long-held dream to provide the best home for animals in need. The new Animal Care and Community Education Centre allows HSHPE to provide the highest standard of animal care, and to offer animal care and community programs. Many generous supporters contributed to the new site. The Cities of Belleville and Quinte West, TaskForce Engineering Inc., along with generous companies who donated money, services and goods to help with the build. A compassionate and caring community contributed substantial financial donations to our It Takes Heart Capital Campaign. 2022 has brought us not only many successes, but also challenges. Sadly, we have seen an increase in animal surrenders as a result of post-pandemic return to work and cost of living increases, which have created financial strain for many families. A shortage of veterinarians and rising veterinary costs have further contributed to the inability of some pet owners to continue to care for family pets. As the Board looks ahead, it is clear that the growing and increasingly diverse population will mean more pets and pet owners needing support, education and services, while access to pet food banks and affordable veterinary care will enable owners to continue to care for their pets. As I complete my term as Chair, my deepest appreciation goes to Marilyn Lawrie, our Executive Director, the staff, Board of Directors, and our many donors and volunteers for their support and dedication. We are indeed “Connected by Compassion”. 7