Community rallies behind Midrand SPCA during Mandela Day fundraiser
The Midrand SPCA came close to reaching its fundraising target as the community answered its call for support by taking part in the 67 Minutes Behind Bars Mandela Day campaign, helping to keep the organisation operational.
The spirit of Nelson Mandela Day was on full display at the Midrand SPCA as community members traded their freedom for 67 symbolic minutes behind bars to help raise funds for animals in need.
The 67 Minutes Behind Bars campaign brought together residents, businesses, supporters and animal lovers in unity of one common goal, which is ensuring that the Midrand SPCA can continue rescuing, treating and caring for abused and abandoned animals.
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Participants, also called ‘Champions’, committed to raising sponsorships before taking their turn behind bars, with every rand collected going towards food, veterinary care, shelter maintenance and the daily operations of the organisation.
The fundraising event brought the community together in a large turnout with some members donating blankets, cleaning supplies and pet food for the animals, while the champions were raising the funds by being Behind Bars for 67 minutes.
Many attendees emphasised that the initiative should not be done once in a while but every chance anyone could get.
One of the Champions, Bono Senna, expressed her joy with the outcome of the fundraising event.
“I’m super proud, and I’m happy that we were able to raise the funds and keep the SPCA operational. They need more for running the SPCA, it’s not just about the pet food, there are operational costs that go into it, there are vehicles that need petrol, and there is health care for the animals.
“I also think this is something that needs to be done more often to help organisations such as the SPCA,” added Senna.
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The Midrand SPCA recently appealed to the public for assistance as it continues to care for vulnerable animals while managing increasing operational costs.
Among those taking part were community members who shared personal reasons for supporting the campaign, demonstrating the deep bond many people have with animals and their commitment to protecting them.
Midrand SPCA volunteer and chairperson Brenda Lucas thanked everyone who participated, donated and helped spread awareness.
“We would like to say thank you very much to every single person who continues to stand behind us, everyone who was a part of the fundraiser. We would also like to thank everyone who donates towards us daily, whether it’s with money, food or blankets, we appreciate everyone who helps make a difference.”
As Mandela Day celebrations came to an end, the success of the 67 Minutes Behind Bars campaign, with an estimated R190 000 raised, once again showed what can be achieved when a community comes together for a common purpose.
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