PLAINFIELD, N.J. — One year after catastrophic flooding nearly destroyed Hope4Paws Humane Society and threatened the lives of every animal in its care, the organization is opening its doors to the community to celebrate an extraordinary story of resilience, compassion, and hope.

On Sunday, August 9, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Hope4Paws Humane Society will host it’s One Year Later: Community Open House & Summer Celebration at its shelter, located at 75 Rock Avenue in Plainfield. The event commemorates the remarkable recovery that followed the devastating July 2025 flood, while thanking the thousands of individuals, businesses, foundations, volunteers, and supporters whose generosity helped rebuild the shelter and restore its mission.

Visitors will enjoy guided tours of the renovated facility, meet adoptable dogs and cats, visit community vendors and food trucks, participate in family-friendly activities—including a furry- friendly splash zone for pets—and attend a special dedication ceremony honoring volunteers and supporters whose efforts made the shelter’s recovery possible. The event is free and open to the public.

A Night That Changed Everything

On the evening of July 14, 2025, record flooding swept through Plainfield, sending water rushing into Hope4Paws Humane Society. As floodwaters rapidly filled the shelter, board members, staff, volunteers, and emergency responders worked side-by-side under dangerous conditions to evacuate every dog and cat in the organization’s care.

Despite extensive damage to the facility, over 70 animals were in the building and every animal was rescued safely.

What followed was months of rebuilding—not only the shelter itself, but also hope for the future.

Community members donated supplies, businesses contributed materials and services, foundations provided financial assistance, and volunteers dedicated countless hours to cleaning, organizing, repairing, and restoring the shelter.

“The flood tested every part of the organization,” said Jill Darcy Moore, Hope4Paws new Executive Director. “While this organization lost equipment, supplies, and much of the facility was damaged, they never lost hope. The community stood beside the staff and Board from the very beginning. I am honored to take on the new role as Executive Director this year and this Open House is our opportunity to thank every volunteer, donor, sponsor, foster, adopter, neighbor, and supporter who believed in our mission and helped us rebuild stronger than ever.”

More Than an Open House

The August 9 event is more than a celebration of a rebuilt building.

It is a celebration of an entire community that refused to let its local animal shelter disappear.

Throughout the afternoon, guests will have the opportunity to: