Hi hviola, the local shelters probably won't let you do much. You have to find a rescue group/organization. I posted a link the other day:
RetroDoggy Rescue,Michigan Yorkshire Terrier Rescue,Michigan Maltese Rescue
Their main focus is yorkies and maltese. They take in very sick dogs, dogs with behavioral issues, healthy dogs, etc. and rehabilitate them. They are a non-profit organization and rely on donations from the public. The people there are incredible and do so much good for yorkies and maltese. You may contact them and see if there's any way you can help. They are based out of Michigan, but they probably have people from the surrounding states that help them.