Summer isn’t a time for fun in the sun for everyone – for the team at RSPCA ACT, it means operations at the animal welfare centre are heating up and costs are about to skyrocket.
To help combat the rising costs, the annual Give to Get Them Home campaign returns this Thursday, 5 October. Every single donation made throughout the day will be matched dollar for dollar by generous corporate partners and donors.
Hosting a digital telethon to accept any donations, the sponsors have agreed to match the contributions up to $75,000. Last year, Canberra raised an incredible $128,000 through the fundraising day which helps fund the rehabilitation and medical treatment (in some cases urgent care) of the shelter’s animals. Ultimately, the funds also went to helping these animals find their forever homes.
Michelle Robertson, CEO of RSPCA ACT and dedicated animal lover, is grateful to all the generous donors and the incredible sponsors who have pledged to dollar match. She understands that times are tough for everyone, but hopes Canberrans will come together to help our disadvantaged animals.
“I understand household budgets are already stretched but I know there are so many people out there who truly love and want to help animals,” Ms Robertson says.
The campaign is an opportunity to maximise your contribution, turning even the tiniest amount into a meaningful message of support.
“This is a unique chance for animal lovers to truly help with what we do and make a difference,” she says.
Warmer weather means kitten season is upon us, although it started early this year; the team at RSPCA are expecting hundred of kittens to come through their Weston facility over the coming months. Historically, summer has also been a time when they see an influx of strays and neglected animals coming through their doors.
Keeping all the residents of the facility healthy, safe, and comfortable in rising temperatures puts a strain on the charity’s purse. The animal welfare organisation is reliant on generous donors with around 65 per cent of their total income being from fundraising efforts. Frugal and adept at making money stretch, the team ensures every cent is utilised to care for strays, surrendered pets, and welfare cases.
“Our Inspectors continue to be out on the road, our vet clinics continue to treat sick animals and our shelter staff work hard every day to find loving new homes for the animals in our care,” Ms Robertson says.
To make your contribution count this Give to Get Them Home day, Thursday 5 October, donate online via rspcagivingday.com/event/rspca-act or call the team on 6287 8100.
If you can’t give financially, there are many other ways to support RSPCA ACT including signing up to be a volunteer or foster carer, helping to spread the word, and humanely caring for animals. Find out how to help via the RSPCA ACT website; rspca-act.org.au
Get all the latest Canberra news, sport, entertainment, lifestyle, competitions and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Canberra Daily Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.
