Animates Giving Trees To Become Annual Fundraiser For SPCA

Now in its second year, the Animates Giving Trees fundraiser is set to become an annual initiative – thanks to the generous support shown by local communities during last year’s inaugural appeal.

Animates will again be providing pet-lovers with the opportunity to give to those animals less fortunate this Christmas, by offering shop-visitors a decoration to trim one of their special Giving Trees, in exchange for a small donation to the SPCA. All funds raised from Animates stores throughout the country will go directly to the thousands of animals taken in by SPCA shelters over the holiday period.

“The Giving Trees fundraiser was so successful last year that we are thrilled to be able to organise the initiative again this year,” says Animates marketing manager Brenda Caseley. “Last year, we were able to raise over $47,000 for the SPCA, which shows the strong community support for such an important cause. This year, we are h`ping to do even better.

Animates stores have Christmas decorations available for a $2, $5 or $10 donation at each of their stores nationwide, with space available for donors to include a message and their name – or their pet’s name.

“It’s great to see how excited people of all ages are when it comes to hanging their decoration on the tree,” says Brenda Caseley. “There’s a real sense that they are doing something for an important cause – and now is the time of year when the SPCA could do with that support.”

The summer holiday season is one of the busiest times of the year for the SPCA, with an significant influx of unwanted animals needing care and attention, says Auckland SPCA executive director, Bob Kerridge. “During the summer, we receive over 100 abandoned animals a day that require shelter, feeding, medical attention and fostering, before they are ready for adoption, says Mr. Kerridge. œSo the donations go a long way toward helping these animals have a second chance at life.

“We are incredibly excited about partnering with Animates again this year, because we know they love animals as much as we do.”

“The concept of the Giving Trees has really captured the imagination – and Christmas spirit – of animal-loving people in our community.”

The Animates SPCA Giving Trees fundraising promotion will run until 24 December, with the funds presented to the SPCA in the new year.

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