The Midrand SPCA appeals for aid
GLEN AUSTIN – Midrand SPCA said their society is being financially crippled due to their increased workloads and the demand for assistance.
The Midrand SPCA has appealed to the public to help bring about positive change this Mandela Month.
Chairperson Brenda Lucas explained that the organisation’s workload increased on a daily basis and, with an increased workload, came increased expenses.
She said that every time their phone rings, expenses are incurred as they have a number of responsibilities to the community and animals.
Below Lucas highlighted some of their most immediate needs:
• Working vehicles to attend to complaints, emergencies, collections, proactive inspections. These vehicles need fuel and services in order to remain on the road.
• Qualified inspectors to do the work mentioned above as mandated by an Act of Parliament.
• Staff to answer calls and queries and manage the administrative work required when animals are surrendered, abandoned, lost or found, to name but a few.
• Clinic staff to do health checks on all animals and ensure that they remain healthy.
• Kennel staff to clean, feed and care for all these animals on a daily basis to ensure that welfare standards are upheld.
• Just these jobs mentioned requires that the SPCA pay rent, water, electricity, phone bills, fuel, kennel maintenance and repair costs, vehicle services, insurance and medical expenses.
Lucas added that some may argue that in any business, or even in some households, these bills needed to be paid, however, in the instance of the SPCA, there is no financial gain for them.
She emphasised that they served the public and the animals. “We are not complaining, as we love serving and protecting animals, but with the loss of income via fundraising and donations over the past, we may not see the end of this year if the trend continues.
“It costs the organisation roughly R280 000 per month to just remain operational and cover monthly expenses. This does not include unexpected costs. The list of needs is endless.”
Sher added that due to Covid-19, this will be their second Mandela Day where no activities can be arranged, which is a big blow to them as they greatly depend on events such as Mandela Day or Mandela Month to keep their heads above water.
“The current situation is a stressful one. We have several projects that we would love to take on this year, but financial constraints and the loss of funding have put all these plans on hold.
“By supporting our society this Mandela Month, you will alleviate our financial burden so that we can continue to pick up that phone when you call and assure you that help is on the way.”
Lucas concluded that the Midrand SPCA is a registered public benefit organisation and an 18A Tax Exemption Certificate could be issued upon request. She said that they are also a Level 1 BBBEE Accreditation with procurement of 135%.
“You can donate to us by calling our office number or emailing us. You could also create a champion page on our BackaBuddy platform and get your friends and family to donate via your link.”
Details: For donations contact Midrand SPCA on info@midrandspca.co.za or Pamela Pretorius manager@midrandspca.co.za or call their office telephone on 011 265 9935.
