North Coast animal shelter struggles as lockdown dries up funds

Sheffield’s beloved Flag Animal Farm, a sanctuary that cares for more than 1000 rescued animals, is facing desperate times if lockdown restrictions are not lifted soon.

The country-wide lockdown has meant its income stream has dried up, while still having a farm full of animals that need to be fed and cared for.

Owner and manager of Flag Animal Farm, Genevieve Chisholm, who has been running the animal farm for nine years, said their animals, which range from cows, sheep, goats, birds, reptiles as well as horses and donkeys require five tonnes of feed a month, excluding specialised feed.

Chisholm’s parents bought the then run down farm 19 years ago, building it up to a major attraction on the Dolphin Coast.

The animal farm rescues a variety of abandoned, neglected and orphaned or injured animals and is one of the most well established and well-respected animal rescue centres on the North Coast.

Closing the farm to visitors has meant they have lost the majority of their income overnight.

The steep revenue decline has hit the rescue shelter hard and they are now facing their most challenging period to date.

They have also had to furlough the majority of their staff and cancel all volunteer support during the lockdown.

While Genevieve said they were managing with the supplies they had, their stock was rapidly being depleted.

“We have received support from a number of generous and thoughtful people and some have even dropped off food to help us during this difficult time. Because of the kindness from the community, we have been able to continue to help our animals, some who have been in a terrible state when they arrived and certainly need us to be here for them.”

Donations can be made to the Flag Animal Farm using the following bank details: Flag Animal Farm, Nedbank, branch code 131 026, account number 1106 433 688.

Food can also be purchased and left at Lali Food, Umhlali or contact Genevieve at 071 674 1192.

For more information visit their Facebook page.

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