As Heidi and Joel Neal celebrated their 10th year of business in 2020, they wanted to be able to provide more funding for nonprofit organizations within the state.
Heidi created the Loyal Biscuit Co. Fenway Fund in 2019, named after her beloved dog and Loyal Biscuit Co. logo. Grants are funded by the proceeds of sales within the six Loyal Biscuit retail locations and are awarded bi-annually to 501(c)(3) Maine animal-related organizations whose proposals are selected by a committee of Loyal Biscuit Co. employees. The Fenway Fund is a way for the company to support animal welfare within Maine communities by providing seed money for projects that will help better the lives of animals that often fall below funding availability.
Recently, the Loyal Biscuit committee selected its seventh round of applicants to receive grant funding for projects they feel best met the criteria of the fund, for a total donation of $5,500.
Darrowby Farm in Jefferson will receive a $1,500 grant for the addition of gutters to its barn. Built in 2022, heavy rains have shown that gutters were needed for the farm’s pig barn for the safety of the animals. The mud created from the lack of gutters contributed to several pigs developing hoof infections. The gutters will also create a safer work environment for the humans and living area for the animals. Darrowby Farm was founded in 2019 to provide lifelong homes for abused, neglected, and abandoned farmed animals and horses.
Humane Society Waterville Area in Waterville will receive a grant of $700 to help with its Silver Street Colony Control Project. These funds will be used to help defray much of the costs associated with spaying and neutering the cats on Silver Street.
Milo Penquis Animal Welfare Sanctuary in Milo will receive $1,500 for the installation of windows in their all-season porch addition. This will create a year-round, safe space for the cats in their care — giving them seven windows to bask in the sun and watch the world around them.
Finally, Home Senior Dog Rescue in North Yarmouth will receive a grant for $1,800 to repair fencing ruined in a storm. Therescue currently has 15 senior dogs in its care and the fence will ensure the dogs are safe and secure.
The application process for the Fenway Fund will re-open again in March 2024 for any Maine animal-related nonprofit organizations. For more information or questions about the Fenway Fund application process, please contact bark@loyalbiscuit.com.
The Loyal Biscuit Co. is a pet supply store with six Maine locations, including in Waterville. .
For more information, visit loyalbiscuit.com or facebook.com/loyalbiscuit.
Send questions/comments to the editors.
