Facing growing financial obligations, Brainy Birds Parrot Rescue and Rehabilitation sanctuary appeals to businesses for donations and assistance.
Founder Dee Hendrickx said the Covid-19 pandemic has taken a toll on the number of donations the NPO received from community members.
“The pandemic has put community members who would make large donations in a tight position and under a lot of pressure, which is understandable,” said Dee.
“Although there is still some support from community members, it is dwindling.”
Besides having an impact on donations, the pandemic and a recent outbreak of beak and feather disease have impacted the number of visitors allowed at the sanctuary.
The NPO cares for 300 neglected, abused and surrendered birds and relies solely on donations and the income generated from its charity shop.
Dee said although the charity shop, located in Eastleigh, is covering its running costs it is not generating enough to support the sanctuary.
She said it costs the NPO more than R50 000 per month to keep its doors open.
Currently, the organisation’s food bill is sitting at R13 000 and it is still waiting to receive its veterinary bill.
Dee said because of the financial pressure the NPO had to let two staff members go.
“It was terrible but we are just pushing through, the volunteers are working their hands to the bones.”
Dee said having corporate donors would assist with budgeting and planning expenses.
Besides financial donations, businesses can assist with donations of fresh fruit and vegetables, gas, and building materials.
She said in return businesses would receive an A-18 certificate, advertising and be promoted on the NPO’s platforms.
To raise funds the NPO will host a fund-raising event on September 1 at the sanctuary.
The fundraising event will allow community members to learn more about the sanctuary and experience a guided tour of the property.
It will be held between 10:00 and 16:00 and will cost R80 per person. Boerewors rolls will be on sale. For more information, email dee@brainybirds.co.za alternatively visit the NPO’s Facebook page.
