Hastings SPCA receives Council support

The Hastings and Districts branch of the RNZSPCA has received significant support from the Hastings District Council, following reports that financial difficulties may have led to closure.

Council has agreed to a one off grant of $20,000 which will support the organisations fundraising and other revenue generating initiatives. Fundraising Manager for Hastings SPCA, Faye Johnson is heartened by the financial assistance from Council. “It is fantastic to receive such positive support from the Hastings District Council and we are grateful that the Mayor and Councillors have recognised the important role that the SPCA plays in our community.”

“The organisation is focused on helping people with their animals, as well as the animals themselves, and this is reflected in the services we provide to our community 24/7. We are also extremely grateful to the local community who, over recent months have given us such wonderful support,” Faye Johnson says.

Hastings Mayor Lawrence Yule says “The SPCA is an important voice for animal welfare in the community and will require significant support from the community if it is to continue operating effectively. Council is concerned that the financial difficulties that the organisation finds itself in, may have a serious impact on its ability to continue the valuable role that it performs for the community.”

Mr Yule says “Council is confident that this financial support will allow the organisation to confidently move forward in working its way through the funding issues. The Hastings SPCA rescues thousands of animals each year and Council is appreciative of the work the organisation does in rehousing and caring for neglected animals all around the district.”

Hastings and Districts SPCA President, Sharon Arcus says she is excited about the relationship between the Council and the SPCA, which will also explore ways that the two organisations can work together. “Some people have questioned whether animal welfare is a role for council, but the funding decision reflects the fact that the majority of those living in Hastings do not like the thought of animals being abused or abandoned. The SPCA is the *2nd most trusted charity brand in New Zealand and provides an essential service that is becoming more difficult to finance every year.

“Funding deficits resulted in a reduction in services earlier this year and the shelter risked closure but support from Council, the public and some significant grants have turned everything around and we are now feeling very positive about our future,” Sharon Arcus says.

The Council funding will allow the branch to launch new fundraising projects that will help it become self reliant in the future. A Community Partnership Program was launched at a recent Chamber of Commerce meeting which will allow local businesses the opportunity to align themselves with the organisation.

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