THOMASTON — Pope Memorial Humane Society (PMHS) has received a $75,000 matching gift from Dr. Henry LaBrie and Martine Richard LaBrie of Friendship.

"This generous gift directly supports the Sherman Medical Fund, providing medical care to homeless pets in need," said PMHS, in a news release.

Through this matching gift initiative, every donation made to PMHS will be matched dollar for dollar, doubling the impact up to $75,000. This means the shelter has the opportunity to raise a total of $150,000 to provide critical veterinary care to animals in need.

The Sherman Medical Fund was established in 2020 to allow donors to give directly to animals requiring medical treatment - named in honor of Sherman, a kitten who, along with his siblings, was rescued from a brush fire. The kittens survived but required extensive medical care due to burns, singed fur, and smoke inhalation.

“This $75,000 matching gift from Dr. Henry LaBrie and Martine Richard LaBrie will profoundly impact the lives of countless animals who come through our doors needing medical attention," said Tracy Sala, PMHS executive director. "The Sherman Medical Fund is vital to our ability to provide everything from routine care to life-saving surgeries, and this matching campaign will empower our community to make an even bigger difference. We extend our sincere thanks to Dr. and Mrs. LaBrie for their compassionate leadership and generosity.” 

The Sherman Medical Fund has helped countless animals receive care.

• Cupid, the cat, was found caught in a rat trap. His right rear leg needed to be amputated, but he is healing beautifully and will be available for adoption soon!
• Dotty’s six puppies all needed age-appropriate vaccinations, de-worming, flea/tick treatment, and spay/neuter surgeries to be adoptable and find their perfect families.
• Catthiew, the cat, was hit by a car and required surgery to repair his pelvis. He has a few more weeks of recovery before he officially becomes adoptable.
• And as kittens arrive daily at PMHS, they often need immediate flea/tick treatment, and dewormer before heading into foster homes to grow big and strong!

PMHS relies on community support to continue its mission of caring for homeless animals. With this matching gift, donors can maximize their contributions and provide critical medical care to pets in need, ensuring they receive the treatment they need to thrive.

To have your donation matched, give to the Sherman Medical Fund today. Donations can be made online at www.popehumane.org or by mail to Pope Memorial Humane Society, PO BOX 1294, Rockland, ME 04841.

Pope Memorial Humane Society is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing shelter, care, and adoption services for homeless animals. PMHS is committed to ensuring the compassionate treatment and placement of companion animals while enriching the lives of pets and people in the community.