PAAC awarded $500K in state funding for spay and neuter services in Coastal Bend

Texas Spay and Neuter Pilot Program funding will support surgeries in nine South Texas counties over two years.

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — A Coastal Bend animal welfare nonprofit has been awarded $500,000 in state funding to expand spay-and-neuter services across South Texas.

People Assisting Animal Control (PAAC) received the funding through the Texas Spay and Neuter Pilot Program, part of a $13 million initiative approved by the Texas Legislature to support spay and neuter programs statewide.

PAAC will receive the $500,000 over the next two years. 

The funding will be used exclusively for spay and neuter surgeries in nine counties near the Coastal Bend, where access to affordable animal care remains limited.

PAAC President Cheryl Martinez said the organization plans to focus on underserved communities to ensure the funds have the greatest impact.

“We focus on the areas with the greatest need,” Martinez said. “That’s how we provide access to care and make the best use of state funding.”

The state funds can only be used for spay and neuter services. 

Martinez added that private donations will help cover additional needs such as flea medication and other basic animal care services.