Donations help Sandton SPCA continue its mission of caring for animals
Behind every bargain at the Sandton SPCA's bookstore and thrift shop is a story of hope, with proceeds helping rescue, treat, and rehome vulnerable animals.
A forgotten novel gathering dust on a bookshelf, an old coffee table tucked away in the garage, or a pre-loved jacket no longer worn could help an abandoned puppy get rescued or a stray kitten get vaccinated.
Sandton SPCA transforms everyday household items into hope for animals in need through its charity shop and second-hand bookstore. The animal welfare is turning community donations into vital funding that supports rescue operations, sterilisation programmes, and animal welfare initiatives. Every purchase made and every item donated helps write a new chapter for vulnerable animals waiting for a second chance.
Read more: Sandton SPCA rescues a vervet monkey in Sandhurst
According to the Sandton SPCA general manager Nick Smith, the charity shop has become much more than a place to hunt for bargains; it is a financial lifeline for the Sandton SPCA, generating between R200 000 and R250 000 every month to help fund operations. “It costs us about R900 000 a month to run our SPCA. The bookstore and the thrift shop generate about R200 000 to R250 000 a month.
“We would appreciate anything that is available for donation. If you’re doing a house clearance, we’ll literally take anything that you can bring. If you have something you would like to donate, but do not have transport, we can come to you.”
From clothing and furniture to electrical appliances, kitchenware, and books, almost every donated item finds a new home while helping fund the SPCA’s work. “Our thrift shop has a wide selection of items, while our bookstore offers fiction, non-fiction, business books, and coffee table books. Whether you’re looking for a unique read or something special for your home, there’s plenty to discover.”
Smith added that behind every sale lies an even greater purpose. He said money raised through the charity shop helps fund the SPCA’s outreach sterilisation programme, which aims to reduce the number of unwanted puppies and kittens. “We go into communities where people bring us their animals for sterilisation. We sterilise them and return them the next day with a bag of food, a blanket, and a toy. Each sterilisation costs R500 and includes vaccinations, deworming, and education for pet owners on responsible animal care.
“We would appreciate your support to keep our charity shop and our programmes running. Whether through donations of items or purchasing at our shop.”
Also read: Sandton SPCA charity shop changes animal’s lives, one donation at a time
Among the volunteers is Solly Mabaso (60), who has volunteered at the Sandton SPCA since 2023. “What inspired me is my love for books and my love for dogs because I love dogs and I love reading as well.”
Mabaso believes volunteering is a rewarding way to give back while staying active. “It gave me the motivation to be in a space where I could enjoy spending my time while assisting at the bookshop. Volunteering is something you can do to keep yourself busy while helping others. It doesn’t require a certain age.”
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