Insurance Reversal Stalls Cleanup at Warrick Humane Society Shelter

It's been just over a week since a chemical fire at a Newburgh, Indiana, facility forced the evacuation of animals from the Warrick Humane Society, the nonprofit is still facing major obstacles in its recovery.

One Week After the Fire: Where Things Stand

On Saturday, September 13, WHS was notified by the Environmental Protection Agency that the environmental company handling cleanup for PBTT’s property would also be tasked with addressing both the shelter’s current site and the construction site for its new building.

EPA and IDEM Recommend Gravel Barrier for Safety

By Monday, staff had met with the Indiana Department of Environmental Management, which recommended laying down a fresh layer of gravel in the parking lot and animal areas to create a barrier against fallen ash, since gravel itself cannot be cleaned.

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Insurance Reversal Leaves Shelter Scrambling

While an environmental crew assessed the property to determine just how much gravel would be needed, WHS received word this week that PBTT’s insurance company has reversed course and will no longer assist with the cleanup efforts.

READ MORE: Learn How to Help Recovery Efforts for WHS

The news has left animal rescue scrambling to find a supplier who can quickly deliver and spread the gravel so the animals in their care can safely return to the Vann Road shelter.

Cats and Puppies Return, Dogs Under Precautions

In the meantime, WHS has cautiously brought back some of the animals. Since they don't go outside, cats and puppies have returned to the shelter, and a few dogs have returned with extra precautions in place to ensure their safety.

Community Support Needed for WHS Recovery

“Our staff is more than ready to return to normal operations. We miss all of our furry friends, our volunteers, and our supporters,” WHS shared on social media. “We’ll let you know as soon as we have our fresh gravel and are able to return to business as usual.”