UPDATE: Delmarva Discovery Museum Launches Fundraiser to Save Museum
UPDATE: The Delmarva Discovery Museum has launched a fundraising campaign to keep operations running after receiving outpouring support from the community in the past few days.
The museum, which was set to close on Friday, Mar. 20 due to rising operational and animal care costs, serves more than 15,000 visitors annually. The announcement to close drew outcries from local community members, and has since caused the museum’s Board of Directors to pursue long-term sustainability solutions. However, the road ahead remains long for museum faculty and animals as they work to raise $100,000.
“Before those plans can be implemented and realized, however, immediate financial support is critically needed so the Museum can reopen to the public and cover its necessary expenses (including caring for its animals) — which average about $800 per day,” the museum said in a post to social media. “The current plan is to remain temporarily closed for approximately one week, with the goal of reopening as soon as sufficient funds are received and/or pledged…”
If you are interested in making a donation to the museum, you can click here, or mail checks to 2 Market Street, Pocomoke City, MD 21851.
WMDT will continue to provide updates on this story as they are made available.
POCOMOKE CITY, Md. – The Delmarva Discovery Museum has announced that they will be closing their doors for good on Friday, Mar. 20.
The museum says the decision follows ongoing financial challenges that have made it increasingly difficult to sustain operations at an acceptable level into the foreseeable future.
“We are incredibly grateful for the support that our community has shown over the years,” the museum said in a post to social media. “That support has helped us bring educational programs, exhibits, and our beloved animals to many thousands of visitors, students, and families throughout the region.”
Officials are working to coordinate with accredited aquariums, wildlife centers, and other institutions to ensure that every animal in the museum’s care is placed in a safe, professional environment.
“For many years, the Delmarva Discovery Museum has served as a valued cultural and educational resource for residents and visitors alike. As a strong nonprofit organization, it played a vital role in supporting the growth and vibrancy of Pocomoke City’s downtown district,” the City of Pocomoke said in a statement. “The City of Pocomoke extends its sincere appreciation for the longstanding partnership it has shared with the museum and recognizes the lasting impact of its contributions to the community.”
This article was originally published on Mar. 17 at 4:35 p.m.
