CROW calls on citizens to turn tax into impact for wildlife
As the tax year-end approaches, the Centre for Rehabilitation of Wildlife is making a plea for tax-deductible donations that directly support the rescue, rehabilitation and release of injured and orphaned wildlife across the province.
THE Centre for Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) is feeling the pinch of higher operational costs, and is pleading with the citizens to extend a helping hand, to keep their doors open for distressed animals.
Denika Govender, Fundraising and Partnership Officer at CROW, shared, “For 45 years CROW has stood on the frontline for wildlife in KwaZulu-Natal. It is South Africa’s oldest wildlife rehabilitation centre, and they admit more than 3000 injured, orphaned and displaced wildlife each year, from tiny tortoises and vulnerable bird species to mongooses, antelope and primates.
“Entirely donor-funded, CROW is open for 365 days of the year for wildlife in distress. Our team travels tens of thousands of kilometres annually, often navigating difficult terrain and harsh weather conditions to reach animals affected by urban expansion, road accidents, domestic animal attacks, and other human-wildlife conflicts.”
Govender added, “However, rising operational costs are placing increasing pressure on wildlife organisations nationwide. The growing number of animals admitted to CROW’s Centre has been accompanied by higher expenses for electricity, water, fuel, animal feed, veterinary care, and enclosure maintenance.”
She said that as a registered Public Benefit Organisation, donations to CROW qualify for tax deductions under Section 18A of the Income Tax Act. “This allows donors to support conservation efforts while benefiting from a tax incentive.”
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A contribution before the close of the tax year, she said, can help cover essential needs such as daily feed for orphaned and injured animals, emergency veterinary procedures and medication, fuel for rescue vehicles and release operations, utilities and operational costs at the rehabilitation centre, and repairs and upgrades to wildlife enclosures
Supporters can contribute in several ways, including making a once-off or recurring donation, becoming a CROW Guardian, partnering as a corporate sponsor, donating goods or services, or amplifying CROW’s mission by sharing its message.
For more information on how to support, contact 031 462 1127 or email info@crowkzn.co.za.
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