Saskatoon SPCA in need of community help as donations drop through pandemic

The Saskatoon SPCA is looking for help as its donations dwindle through the COVID-19 pandemic.

The charity has seen an “incredible drop in donations,” which began in March when the pandemic hit, according to communications coordinator Jasmine Hanson.

“We still have just as many animals coming into our shelter. We care for an average of 4,000 each year,” she said.

“We usually rely on fundraising events in the spring and summer months every single year. And of course, we’ve had to cancel those for the safety of everybody involved.”

On average, Saskatoon SPCA needs $24 per day, per animal in their shelter for just basic food and shelter. Tack on additional costs for spaying and neutering, along with regular medical costs — the totals have been adding up.

“We are a charity, and we rely on donations. COVID-19 has kind of thrown a wrench into that,” Hanson said.

Saskatoon SPCA also entered into a contest for the month of June through Canada Helps. The “Great Canadian Giving Challenge” is a national contest where every dollar raised in the month enters them into a draw for $20,000.

Hanson says the SPCA has set a fundraising goal of $5,000, and are about half-way there, but there aren’t many days left until the contest closes.

“It doesn’t matter how much or how little you’re able to donate., because every bit helps,” she said.

Hanson added that the SPCA has seen a large increase in adoptions following the COVID-19 pandemic. She says to keep an eye on its website for adoption opportunities.

To donate to the contest, you can head to Saskatoon SPCA’s Facebook page or its website.