MONKEY Helpline, an organisation dedicated to the rescue and care of vervet monkeys, have found themselves in a difficult position.

The non-profit is making an appeal to the public to assist in helping them to continue the important work they do.

Also read: Bluff monkey rescued after two months of torture

For years, the organisation had been instrumental in rescuing injured, orphaned and displaced vervet monkeys across the province. Their work often meant responding to emergency calls at any hour, day or night. 

Surviving by a thread

Carol Booth, one of the directors, said neither she nor her co-director Steve Smit, receive a salary, despite the demanding nature of the work they undertake daily.

“The small handful of supporters that do contribute to our work is not nearly enough to sustain the organisation for even a single week,” said Booth.

Also read: Injured monkey euthanised

Despite having cultivated a considerable following on social media, Booth pointed out that this online support had not translated into the financial assistance necessary to maintain their rescue and rehabilitation efforts.

“The only reason the organisation still operates, is because of the international volunteers who pay to come help us care for the vervet monkey babies rescued by Monkey Helpline,” she said.

International volunteer programme 

Booth added that this volunteer programme effectively allows the organisation to operate during the six-month baby season, providing both much-needed assistance and a crucial source of income.

However, during the remaining six months of the year, when volunteers are not present, the organisation struggles significantly to remain viable.

Also read: Yellowwood Park monkey suffers ill fate

The organisation is running low on basic necessities: fuel for their rescue vehicles, the special milk formula required for monkeys, essential veterinary treatment and salaries for their staff.

“If everyone donated something, regardless how small, we would be okay. We truly need your help right now, not tomorrow, not next week,” she said.

Support:

For those interested, donations can be made into the organisation’s First National Bank account number: 630 524 038 62.

More information about the organisation and its ongoing work is available on www.monkeyhelpline.co.za

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