Learners from the Crawford International Sandton College’s domestic animal interact board are turning compassion into action.

They are conducting a focused drive supporting Bagel and Friends, a small, foster-based animal rescue founded by a veterinary student at Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute. The organisation rehabilitates abandoned and vulnerable kittens, many of whom require medical treatment and surgery before adoption.

Chairperson Aqua Indiana Douglas Pedersen said the board deliberately sought out a smaller organisation this year. “We wanted to move beyond supporting only the bigger NGOs. Smaller organisations, like Bagel & Friends, don’t have steady funding or large donor bases. Because students run them, they rely heavily on community support.”

Vice-chair Avir Pershad said they have between 14 and 18 learners participate in each outreach session, creating items requested by the NGO. Recent initiatives included handmade rattle toys made from recycled materials and cat beds for foster homes.

Aqua said the recycled toy initiative served both environmental and practical purposes. “It makes participation easier because students can bring items from home. At the same time, we’re reducing waste and supporting our school’s environmental efforts.”

Read more: Gallo Manor animal rescuer appeals for food and shelter donations

Aqua added that many of the kittens are fostered in student residences, where space and resources are limited. The NGO also funds veterinary procedures independently.

“That’s why donations are so important,” Pershad said. “If we can supply food, litter, and beds, it removes at least some of the financial pressure.”

While learners earn community service hours, Douglas Pedersen believes the experience has deeper value. “Once students start helping,” Aqua said, “they understand it’s not just about hours or awards; it’s about using what you have to make a difference.”

Donations of cat litter, kitten milk, pet food, beds, carriers, and other pet-related items are being collected until mid-April. Monetary contributions to assist with veterinary costs are also welcome.

The domestic animal interact board rotates its support among different NGOs throughout the year, but says it remains committed to raising awareness about smaller, student-led initiatives that depend on community generosity.

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