Shattered roofing and collapsed ceilings greeted The Animal Guardians (TAG) team on the morning of December 1.

Following heavy rains and pelting hail the night before, the animal welfare organisation’s new week started with mop up operations and damage assessments while carers set to work to dry and comfort the animals in their care.

“I wanted to cry when I saw the damage,” said founder Annie Jungmann.

“The roofing covering the kennels was shattered, the animals were terrified and wet.”

Relying on the assistance of their loyal supporters, messages started circulating on community groups.

“Our first priority was to ensure that each and every kennel is repaired to offer safe shelter for our doggies and kitties,

“For the safety of our staff as well as visiting members of the public, urgent repairs to our charity shop and office ceilings also needed attention.”

Within only a few hours of sending out their plea for corrugated sheeting and ceiling boards, TAG’s parking area became a hive of activity, with anonymous donors delivering not only the materials they needed, but volunteers turning up to lend a helping hand.

“We were blown away by the support. Many beneficiaries from our outreach programme arrived offering to clear fallen leaves, branches and debris while others immediately got to work helping with repairs,” said Jungmann.

“Further donations of food and blankets were also made. This is Benoni – when someone is in need the community bands together to assist in every possible way.

“We are incredibly grateful for the care and love we received in our time of need. We cannot thank you enough.”

With daily operations back to normal, only one more section of TAG’s property needs a little tender loving care.
“The plants at our Plants 4 Paws nursery are looking very sad,” said Katie O’Neill.

“Funds raised through sales of hardy and water-wise plants supplement our ongoing fund-raising efforts. Any donations of off-cuts, bulbs and seedlings would be greatly appreciated.”

For more information contact Jungmann via WhatsApp on 076 330 5736 or visit them at 86 Cloverdene Road, Van Ryn, Benoni.

Monetary donations can also be made to TAG Standard Bank (Cheque Account), Account number: 10106261256, Branch code: 051001.

Use the reference “Repairs”

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