After years of serving vulnerable animals, the Brakpan SPCA is struggling to meet basic expenses and, without immediate support, critical services are at risk.

A statement issued by the Brakpan SPCA’s management committee confirmed that the society is currently in a state of critical financial crisis, and an urgent appeal has been made to the community of Brakpan, Tsakani and beyond for assistance.

“While our community has been incredibly generous in responding to our recent pleas for food and facility repairs, we have now reached a point where we cannot meet our most basic monthly overheads,” the statement reads.

“Despite our best efforts to remain lean and efficient, the current economic climate has resulted in an all-time low in financial donations and event participation.”

As a result, the SPCA is struggling to cover:

• Staff salaries: Including statutory obligations like UIF and PAYE. Staff are the backbone of the SPCA’s operations.
• Essential utilities: Massive outstanding accounts for fuel and soon, water and electricity.
• Veterinary accounts: Ensuring animals receive the medical care they deserve and continuing to offer sterilisation services to support adoptions.
• Operational costs: Including the thrift store at Mall@Carnival, which, despite hopes, has become a financial burden rather than a source of income.

“We are already operating at a bare minimum. If we do not see a significant and immediate shift in our financial position, we will be forced to begin the process of downsizing,” the statement explains.

“Our goal is, and always has been, to avoid closure, but we cannot continue to operate without the funds to pay for the services that keep our gates open.”

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How you can help save the Brakpan SPCA
The society is not looking for a temporary fix, but a lifeline to help transition toward a self-sustainable future.

They are appealing to local business owners, corporate sponsors, and individuals to assist in the following ways:

• Account sponsorship: Directly sponsor a portion (or the total) of the monthly utility, fuel, or veterinary accounts.
• Salary sponsorship: Help ensure that dedicated inspectors and kennel staff are paid for their tireless work.
• Kennel sponsorship: A monthly contribution toward a specific kennel to cover the food and care of the animal residing there.
• Corporate partnerships: The SPCA is looking for long-term partners who can help clear outstanding debt so they can focus on new income-generating projects and move toward becoming self-sustaining.

“The animals of Brakpan and Tsakani deserve a safe haven. Our staff deserve the security of knowing they can continue their mission.

“We are doing everything in our power to turn this around, including reviewing the future of our thrift store and adjusting our service fees, but we cannot do it alone,” the statement notes.

If you, your company, or organisation can help the SPCA navigate this slump, reach out to their committee members:

• Pieter Aucamp (chairperson): chair@brakpanspca.co.za
• Bianka Zietsman (treasurer): treasurer@brakpanspca.co.za
• Tamaryn Lombard (fundraising): fundraising@brakpanspca.co.za

“We thank you for your continued heart for the animals. Now, more than ever, we need your hand,” the statement concludes.

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