Grant boosts Lollypop Farm’s humane law enforcement capabilities

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Lollypop Farm, the Humane Society of Greater Rochester, is strengthening its emergency response and investigative capabilities following a $20,000 federal grant secured by New York State Assemblymember Jen Lunsford. 

The funding, provided through the U.S. Department of Justice’s Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant program, will allow Lollypop Farm’s Humane Law Enforcement division to upgrade critical mobile radio communications systems in patrol vehicles.  

The upgrades are essential to maintaining uninterrupted communication with the Monroe County Emergency Communications Center and regional law enforcement partners, leaders of the nonprofit said.  

The investment addresses aging radio equipment that has exceeded its service life, improving officer safety and ensuring reliable coordination during animal-related emergencies, criminal investigations and time-sensitive calls across the Finger Lakes region. 

This marks the third consecutive year Assemblymember Lunsford has secured Byrne JAG funding for Lollypop Farm, bringing total federal support to $50,000. 

Alice Calabrese, president and CEO of Lollypop Farm, said the funding directly supports the organization’s long-term strategic vision.  

“This new funding will directly enhance our ability to respond to animal emergencies with greater coordination, speed, and impact,” Calabrese said. “It ensures animals in crisis receive the critical care they deserve while strengthening the safety net for pets and the people who love them.” 

Lunsford emphasized the broader public safety implications of humane law enforcement. 

 “Violence toward animals is too often a predictor of violence toward people,” she said. “The intervention Humane Law Enforcement provides can help disrupt cycles of abuse not just for animals, but for entire households and communities.” 

Lollypop Farm’s Humane Law Enforcement officers provide services throughout the region without reimbursement from local municipalities, making the federal funding particularly impactful. 

Reno Di Domenico, vice president for Humane Law Enforcement at Lollypop Farm, said the upgraded infrastructure will support both enforcement and education efforts.  

“By strengthening our ability to protect animals and expand humane education, we are helping build a more compassionate community,” he said. 

The funding also aligns with Lollypop Farm’s broader Kindness for All Kind campaign, which aims to position the organization as a national leader in animal welfare and humane education. 

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