Run and convoy event for animals coming to Greenstone

A simple gesture to support a good cause for Fabio Ribeiro and his family resulted in him planning to host a Run for Paws initiative in Greenstone on August 4.

Last year, Fabio and his family decided to donate two boxes of animal supplies to Santa Cause for Paws (SCFP).

“I got interested and kept on monitoring the support SCPF got and the boxes pledged were below expectations.”

The interested 23-year-old decided to find a way to help increase the pledges.

“I spoke to SCFP to ask if I could help,” said Fabio.

After getting the nod, he took on the mammoth task of getting more donors.

“Many people were interested, but do not have the time to go out and buy the items, pack the box, label it and drop it off.

“This is where I found an opportunity to help these animals indirectly by doing the actual work on behalf of the people of the public,” said Fabio.

In just under two months, the University of the Witwatersrand student managed to raise funds for 127 boxes towards the charity.

“This was far beyond my expectations, genuinely, I thought I would maybe get to 50 or 60 boxes, never mind 127.”

Claudia Ferreira, a co-founder of SCFP, said Fabio’s contribution last year ensured that more than 100 animals received Christmas gifts.

Some of the local beneficiaries of SCFP are the Edenvale Ferals and Edenvale SPCA and many others.

“I am aiming to raise 250 boxes, some may say it is impossible.”

Fabio’s goal is far-fetched according to himself.

“If he reaches his goal this year, this will mean more gifts for the animals,” said Claudia.

Fabio opted to change his approach this year.

“I thought long and hard and Run for Paws was created.”

The breakfast run and convoy will start at the Green Valley Shopping Centre at 7am and end at Oak Avenue in Cullinan for brunch.

A wide variety of car enthusiasts, crews and communities from across South Africa will be present.

“The selection of cars attending is something not to be missed,” said Fabio.

For more information on the run search “Run For Paws” on Facebook or contact Fabio on 083 700 9656.