VEREENIGING – Proving that community strength extends beyond emergency response, the Vaal team of CERT-SA (Community Emergency Response Team) stepped up this week to support local animal welfare efforts.

On Thursday, CERT-SA representatives visited Yvette Wilde, founder of the non-profit organisation 50 Shades of Spay, to hand over a much-needed donation of dog food.

“This generous donation was made possible thanks to Bianca Gibb, whose kindness and compassion will help provide much-needed nourishment to animals in need,” CERT-SA said in a statement.

“A heartfelt thank you goes to Yvette and her 50 Shades of Spay support team for their incredible daily work.

“Your dedication to rescuing, caring for, and advocating for vulnerable animals is truly inspiring. We are grateful for the opportunity to support your mission.”

Yvette expressed deep gratitude for the support and praised the CERT Vaal team for their ongoing dedication to the community.

“What fabulous people, and they chose 50 Shades,” Wilde said.

“Sometimes I am lucky enough to brush shoulders with people who truly do good, and this team is testament to that.

“Listening to them speak about their passion for their work gave me hope. I mean, who chooses to serve the public in times of real, critical need? Thank you from the bottom of my heart for caring and for everything you do.”

The handover was led by CERT-SA Vaal team members Kristin Bayasgalan, Gavin Arrow, and Director Cecil Parsons.