Fabio rises to the challenge again

The year 2020 is here and Fabio Ribeiro is not backing down from his passion of raising funds for animals in need.

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In 2019, the NEWS followed the Wits student’s journey as he rallied his community to the Santa Cause for Paws (SCFP).

The Greenstone resident hosted drives during 2019 and attracted many car enthusiasts into the cause.

SCFP raises funds throughout the year for animals.

“SCFP has become very close to me and working with them each year our bond grows stronger so next year, it’s even bigger and better,” said Ribeiro.

Ribeiro realised that some people are too busy to buy and package the gift boxes.

He decided to start shopping and packaging the gift boxes for people who just wanted to donate money.

On Christmas season, the boxes are distributed to some animal shelters including our animal rescues.

In 2019, he said he aimed to raise 250 boxes.

“In total, I handed over 276 boxes and 500kg cat litter to Santa Cause for Paws in 2019,” said Ribeiro.

The boxes went to several beneficiaries such as Edenvale Ferals, Edenvale SPCA, Woodrock Animal Rescue, New Hope Rescue and Cat Village, chosen by SCFP.

Ribeiro said he is excited to start early in 2020 with the drive.

“The feedback has been overwhelmingly good, both from the beneficiaries and the community who donated through me.”

Three hundred and more boxes are Ribeiro’s goal this year.

My highlight is the growth I’ve achieved from 2018, where I did 127 boxes.

“I thought it was a mammoth effort at the time.”

Another highlight for the fund-raiser was the support from sponsors, such as Pro Bono who donated 90 dog treats.

Sandringham SPAR owners donated more than 200 tins of dog food.

“This was just a bonus to each box as most boxes had a lot more than what was required.”

Ribeiro says the low was trust broken by donors.

“I would get contacted for interest in donating.”

Ribeiro packaged boxes as soon as he was contacted.

“I would do boxes in advance as payments take long to reflect and also at times not everyone can pay right then.

“Some of the payments never came through.

“This was costly to me as I used personal savings.”

As a student, Ribeiro said he did not get any income, the distrust cost him time and money.

“Doing this initiative for two years now, my heart has grown even fonder of animals, especially those in need.

“This experience made me realise just how many animals need help that most of us are unaware of.”

Ribeiro was completing his third-year undergraduate degree in accounting sciences while raising funds last year.

“This was all a balancing act for me. To balance my initiative for boxes, focus on my studies, go to gym daily and still making time for family and friends was hard.

“But I did it with a smile.

“It has been an incredible experience and I hope I can replicate this next year and do even more boxes,” said Ribeiro.

To donate towards the 2020 drive, go to www.santapaws.co.za or email info@santapaws.co.za.

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