DURBAN – The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) and South Africans have managed to raise R230 000 for Ukraine animal welfare organisations amid Russia’s invasion of the European country.
Almost a month ago, the NSPCA called for support in its efforts to help Ukrainian animal welfare organisations after it announced an initial donation of R30 000.
The NSPCA said that some time ago, it contacted various animal welfare organisations across Ukraine in order to provide assistance. The council wanted to send funds to organisations that assist companion animals and also farm animals kept in sanctuaries.
“The public may already be aware, but many of these organisations are unreachable and have been for the last two-three weeks, due to the circumstances in Ukraine. It is becoming increasingly more difficult to make contact with welfare organisations. The NSPCA is also taking every precaution to ensure that funds are not placed into fraudulent accounts of scammers claiming to be helping animals in Ukraine. We have already been warned by our colleagues overseas that this alarming issue is indeed on the rise,” the NSPCA said.
The organisation said the council was working with other animal welfare organisations from the United Kingdom to source conduits for the money to be sent directly to the animal welfare organisations in Ukraine. The reason – it is impossible for organisations to receive money from banks or ATMs.
“The NSPCA extends a heartfelt and sincere thank you to the South African public, especially those who we have not been able to thank personally, for coming forward to help the animals in Ukraine. Together, we have raised R230 000 to be distributed to the animal welfare organisations in Ukraine. It does not matter how large or small a donation is; what matters is that when there was a cry for help, the call was heeded. Thank you, South Africa,” the NSPCA said.
“The council has also been asked to consider the future of animal welfare in Ukraine. When the war is over, many animals will need much help. Organisations will have to be rebuilt.”
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