The 2026 Brix Challenge is approaching the finish line as the month of October comes to an end and the Humane Society of McDonough County (HSMC) is hoping for another big finish this year. All Brix Challenge donations received during the month of October are used to save lives and help animals in need in McDonough County. Becoming a part of the Brix Challenge means you are a direct part of making that happen. Your support will contribute to the HSMC's:
• ongoing direct support to the McDonough County Animal Shelter assisting with the care and socialization of the animals there while they await forever homes; promoting adoptions; subsidizing spay/neuter expenses and cat vaccines; covering the cost of specialized medical needs (e.g., Parvo and heart worm treatment; needed surgery and purchasing needed items.
• assistance to the community via financial support of spay/neuter initiatives for community cats and the "Fix a Bully" program; providing assistance to financially struggling pet owners via the Pet Food Pantry and the Emergency Angel Fund.
• new McDonough County animal shelter, which will be located on West Jackson just outside of Macomb. The property has been purchased and plans are well underway for the renovation of the existing buildings. This will be accomplished in phases dependent on funds available in the new shelter building account.
The Humane Society of McDonough County is a 100 percent volunteer organization supported entirely on donations and gifts. While much of the work of the HSMC supports the county-run animal shelter, the organization is a separate entity from the McDonough County County Animal Shelter (MCAS). HSMC members, volunteers and supporters are committed to furthering the society's vision to provide humane care and treatment for all cats and dogs in the county, and as such, the organization relies on continuous financial support to continue its mission.
Becoming a part of the Brix Challenge 2026 is easy, and no amount is too small. Tax-deductible donations can be sent by Oct. 31 to: The Brix Challenge c/o Humane Society of
