Nearly 500 guests enjoyed quite a “paw-ty” at Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh’s East Side shelter on Saturday, August 26th. The SOLD-OUT event raised a record $1,050,000 for HARP’s mission to provide animals with the care they need and the love they deserve. The evening featured live music, delicious bites and craft cocktails and guests had the opportunity to tour the shelter and interact with some amazing pets waiting to find their forever homes.

Among the highlights of the evening was the arrival of the new HARP M.O.V.E.S. (Medical – Outreach – Veterinary – Essential – Support) mobile veterinary medical unit and the announcement of the Humane Health Coalition by Kim and David Holmberg, the event’s Honorary Chairs. This new innovative program, in partnership with Allegheny Health Network’s Center for Inclusion Health, will provide low to no cost veterinary healthcare and simultaneously provide human-focused health and support services, bringing care directly to those who need it most in our communities.

“Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh does many wonderful things including making pet ownership accessible, and also helping to keep pets with their families,” said Kim Holmberg. “As a member of HARP’s board of directors, I was immediately inspired by the vision of the Humane Health Coalition when it was presented by Dr. Ariella Samson, HARP’s Assistant Executive Director, Veterinary Services and Shelter Operations, and I wanted to help make that vision a reality. While pets have always played a huge role in our lives, we recognize that high costs and limited access to care can be barriers to having a loving companion. David and I could not be prouder to support this initiative that will help animals and pet owners get the care they need.”

“We are thrilled to announce the Humane Health Coalition at tonight’s Wags, Whiskers and Wings End of Summer Pawty,” said Gerry Delon, Executive Director of Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh. “HARP is truly fortunate to have the Holmbergs as partners in our mission and we greatly value their leadership and generosity. Tonight, they inspired our guests to join with them in investing in this initiative that will impact the future of thousands of Pittsburghers and their pets throughout the region.”

Generously sponsoring the event is Highmark Health as the Top Dog Sponsor. Other sponsors include Ultimutt Champion Sponsors Highmark, JonesDay, PNC, U.S. Steel, The Cat’s Meow Sponsors Ellen & Dave DeNinno, EY, Fragasso Financial Advisors, Julie Coletti & Giovanni Mineo, Gretchen & Martin Connelly, Reed Smith, Beverlynn & Steven Elliott, UPMC, Animal Hero Sponsors Amy & Dr. Anthony Pardo, Jessica & Dan Potetz, Emelia & David Grubman, Dollar Bank, Kim & David Holmberg, Laura Long, Melanie & James Crockard Foundation, MSA Safely, PGT

Trucking, Program Productions (PPI), The Narduzzi Family, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Faithful Friends Sponsors LIST and many others.