MANATEE COUNTY, FL (June 10, 2026) - Manatee County will celebrate the opening of its new Animal Welfare Resource Center on June 17, 2026, expanding access to affordable and no-cost veterinary services for residents to help keep pets healthy, housed and out of shelters.

“The Animal Welfare Resource Center represents a major investment in both animal welfare and the families who love their pets,” said George Kruse, Manatee County commissioner. “By increasing access to preventive veterinary care, we can help residents keep their pets at home, reduce shelter intake and build a stronger, more compassionate community.”

Made possible through a $305,750 grant award from the Bishop-Parker Foundation, pending formal acceptance by the Board of County Commissioners and execution of the necessary agreements, the CARE (Community Animal Resource & Enhancement) Program will provide spay/neuter surgeries, vaccinations and basic wellness services to qualifying residents, rescue organizations and high-need animal populations.

A separate $50,000 grant previously accepted by the Manatee County Board of County Commissioners from the Manatee Community Foundation also provided critical medical equipment needed to support veterinary services at the center.

The center will serve as the home of the CARE Program, a new initiative designed to provide targeted veterinary services to underserved communities throughout Manatee County. The program is expected to directly benefit approximately 1,000 to 2,000 residents and 2,500 to 4,000 animals annually while helping reduce pet surrender, prevent unwanted litters and alleviate pressure on local shelters.

“Animal welfare starts long before a pet enters a shelter,” said Michael Strollo, communications coordinator for Manatee County Community and Veterans Services. “This center gives families access to the resources they need to care for their pets while helping create better outcomes across our community.”

Manatee County will officially open the Animal Welfare Resource Center during a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 9 a.m. on June 17 at 401 17th Ave W, Bradenton, FL, 34205.

For more information about Manatee County Animal Welfare programs and services, visit mymanatee.org/pets.