Kempton Park resident Johan van Antwerpen organised a market at Constance Place in Birchleigh to benefit the Kempton Park SPCA on April 27.
The Kempton Park SPCA’s dire need for funding prompted Van Antwerpen to step in and assist.
“I thought I should organise something with the community for the SPCA and just help out wherever we can,” he said.
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He added that SPCAs across SA are closing down due to a lack of funds.
“If communities don’t help, they all will close down eventually. This is the first event of the year, and we will try to have it monthly,” he said.
A range of items were for sale on the day, such as knives, books, antiques, pyjamas and pancakes.
Brandon Smith, who had a stall at the market, spoke to the Kempton Express.
“We wanted to raise money for the SPCA and make sure all the animals there do not lose their homes while promoting our local businesses,” he said.
He said people who mistreat and neglect animals should understand that animals have feelings just like humans.
“Animals need love and need to be comforted. When God created Adam and Eve, he surrounded them with animals, and when Jesus was born, he was surrounded by animals, too.
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“That shows how important animals are to us and we need to take care of them,” he said.
Nina Manzoni, a stall holder, said animals are not as well looked after as they used to be.
“We have so many stray animals on the streets, so it is vital that we help the SPCA take care of these animals and provide them an opportunity to survive in this world,” she said.
