SPCA fighting to stay afloat
In yet another fundraiser held on Saturday, 22 May, volunteers sold hot dogs at the premises of Henry's Properties while others lured shoppers at Tambotie Mall with cupcakes for more quid.
Despite its dire financial situation, the RandWest SPCA is making every effort to keep its doors open.
In yet another fundraiser held on Saturday, 22 May, volunteers sold hot dogs at the premises of Henry’s Properties while others lured shoppers at Tambotie Mall with cupcakes for more quid.
René van Straten, inspector at the RandWest SPCA said the purpose of the day was also to let the community know that they’re still committed to their mandate of serving and protecting animals – and they will do everything they can to stay afloat, giving thanks to the public as they’re still operational.
She said although they’re struggling with covering their costs on a monthly basis, the help they’ve received from the public on the day was overwhelming. At the moment, their biggest challenge is a vehicle.
“We also need cleaning products and financial support to pay the rest of our bills. These are fuel, and animal-related products including food, blankets and toys. For us being able to pay salaries is a huge blessing but we are still short-staffed and cannot employ more people to help us,” René explained.
The organisation is extremely important as it not only protects and shelters vulnerable animals, but part of their mission is to fight for these animals as they are voiceless. René said every day, they help to ward off any type of threat these defenceless creatures face.
She went on to thank the volunteers and local businesses who always show their support, and ordinary people who go out of their way to help.
“On the day of the fundraiser, a family brought a whole trolley of goodies for our animals. We are so blessed with our current support, because we’ve asked the community to help and they truly did!”
She also said because they have limited resources, people need to understand they cannot be everywhere.
“We need the public to be our eyes and ears, and to report whenever they suspect or witness animal abuse and when an animal is neglected.
“We’d also like people to make sure that they have their pets sterilised and lastly, we’d like people to consider adopting before they buy animals,” Van Straten added.
