Our History
Rooted in Compassion. Driven by Community.
Hope4Paws Humane Society began with a simple belief: every animal deserves love, protection, and a safe place to call home. From emergency rescues to second chances for overlooked pets, we work tirelessly to ensure animals receive the care, respect, and dignity they deserve.
1933-34
How It All Began
A local resident, Mrs. Edward Morbus was dissatisfied with the Plainfield City Pound after discovering it euthanized stray dogs, 72 hours after rescuing them. She initiated a planning meeting to organize a local humane society in Plainfield. Mrs. Mobus was nominated temporary Chairman, and the newly established board voted to name the organization, the Plainfield Humane Society (PHS). The purpose of the group was to work with the City to improve the pound.
In 1934, PHS took over the City pound.
1934
City Grants Permission For New Shelter Facility
PHS made attempts to operate the shelter on the site of the old city pound but were later granted permission by the city to remove the old shelter and erect a new facility at its location at Rock and Myrtle Avenues.
1938
A New Shelter is Erected
With the generosity of Samuel Rushmore, a local businessman and contractor, the old city pound was demolished. A new, modern animal shelter and hospital was built at 4 Rock Avenue in Plainfield, NJ. Mr. Rushmore made a donation of $9,000 for an ambulance, equipment and materials for the building. He personally supervised all the work and was involved in the erection of the building.
1963
Plainfield Humane Society Moves to New Location
PHS purchases the current building at 75 Rock Avenue and moves the shelter to this new location
1968
501(c)(3) - a non-profit corporation
Plainfield Humane Society (PHS) became a 501(c)(3) – a non-profit corporation. During this time, PHS began serving the surrounding communities in the Plainfield area.
1970s
Name Change
The Board passed a resolution to change the name from the Plainfield Humane Society to the Plainfield Area Humane Society – (PAHS)
1990s-2024
Responsible Pet Guardianship
Between the 1990s and 2024, the Plainfield Area Humane Society spayed and neutered approximately 10,000 dogs and cats
2024-25
Hope 4 Paws Humane Society
In 2024, the PAHS Board passed a resolution to change the organization’s name to Hope 4 Paws Humane Society to reflect its mission.
In 2025 the name change was made public.
Our history is proof of what’s possible...
Hope4Paws is excited about our next chapter and look forward to making history with you!
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