Bankwell held a reception Tuesday for its second Pet Adoption Project at its Wilton branch.

It was part of an ongoing effort to create awareness about the many dogs and cats in need of homes at animal shelters throughout Fairfield and New Haven counties.

Since the launch of the project last year, over 80 percent of animals they have featured have been adopted.

"It's a way for us to give back to the community in a way that i think makes a really big difference," says Lucy French, co-owner of the project. "I feel like we can connect with new people, give animals a new opportunity that maybe wouldn't have had such a big platform to be adopted."

Bankwell has partnered with several organizations including the Stamford Animal Shelter and Red Leash Rescue.