The RSPCA branch on the Isle of Wight has launched a Christmas charity appeal to help cover the costs of keeping animals warm this winter.
The branch, which receives no regular funding from the national RSPCA, estimates that the energy bill for its animal rescue centre in Godshill could reach £40,000 this year, more than double the previous year’s costs.
Your donations count
The charity is asking for donations to help cover these rising costs, and is also accepting donations of blankets and bedding to keep the animals in its care warm.
RSPCA branch manager Suzanne Pugh said,
“We know how much people are struggling with the cost of living crisis, yet we know also how our wonderful community has, repeatedly, come forward to support their Island animal shelter.”
She added,
“We rely entirely on generous donations and fundraising activities of the community to keep going and the cost of providing our many and varied animal welfare services has simply never been higher.”
Blankets needed
Anyone who is able to donate blankets can drop them off at the RSPCA animal centre near Godshill, which is open from 10am to 4pm every day of the week.
RSPCA Christmas cards
In addition, people can help by purchasing the RSPCA’s own Christmas cards, which feature the rescue dog Oakley (pictured below), a five-year-old Samoyed who had to have 2.2kg of fur and debris removed when he arrived at the centre.
The cards are available in packs of two for £3 at RSPCA shops in Newport, Sandown, and Ventnor, as well as at the animal centre in Godshill.
Suzanne said,
“I thank everyone for their kindness at this time of year and on behalf of the animals, our volunteers and our staff I can assure you we appreciate your generosity.”
Show your support
You can make a donation by visiting the RPSCA Isle of Wight Website.
