City hiring shelter technicians is a win-win for people, pets
Published on February 06, 2023
Pets staying at Fort Worth animal shelters will get some extra love from animal technicians supplied by two local nonprofits.
By the numbers: City Council will consider agreements with Goodwill Industries of Fort Worth and Presbyterian Night Shelter of Tarrant County for a combined amount up to $900,000 for the first year, with options for four one-year renewals.
Why it matters: The two vendors would provide temporary animal shelter technicians to perform animal care tasks and shelter upkeep at Fort Worth’s two shelters. The extra hands will help maintain a clean and disease-free environment for impounded animals.
What they’re saying: “These shelter technicians will be an integral part of our strategy to provide top-notch care for shelter pets,” said Code Compliance Director Brandon Bennett. “This program presents an opportunity for more individuals to move out of homelessness or avoid it altogether. We’re beyond excited about the opportunity to expand our partnership with these nonprofit organizations that provide a vital community service.”
Chris McAllister, Code Compliance assistant director over Animal Care & Control, said: “The City’s partnership with UpSpire and Goodwill continues to be a successful venture for the animals in the shelters and those team members provided by our partners. With these additional staff, the animals benefit by increased human interaction and socialization, increased levels of care and consistency. Not only does this program provide for better care for our animals, but it also offers a path forward for those facing barriers to employment.”
City contracts with Presbyterian Night Shelter’s UpSpire program are not new. In October, the City Council unanimously accepted a contract with UpSpire in support of the litter control campaign, Litter: Stop it! Report it! Pick It Up! The contract allowed the City to expand from three litter pickup crews to 10.
What’s next: City Council was scheduled to approve the animal shelter contract on Jan. 31, but that meeting was postponed due to icy weather. The item will be on the Feb. 14 agenda.
Photo: Two vendors will provide temporary animal shelter technicians to perform animal care tasks and shelter upkeep at Fort Worth’s two shelters.
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