MEDICINE HAT, AB – Tributes and condolences poured in for Betty White when she passed away on New Year’s Eve, weeks before her 100th birthday.
Animal rescues around the world are hopeful donations will pour in on Jan. 17. That’s the day White would have turned 100 and the day of the Betty White Challenge.
It asks people to donate $5 to their local animal organization as a way to honour White, who was as well-known as an animal lover and advocate as she was as a Hollywood star.
“She was a legend, everybody knows who she is, everybody loves her so she was a huge loss to the world basically,” says Denise Devoe, vice president of Persian Dreams and Canine Themes. “So to honour her name in rescue animals would be a fantastic way to do that.”
The Medicine Hat SPCA is also encouraging donations in honour of the actress and comedian.
“Betty White has been a great spokesperson for animal rights and animal health so it’s great to participate in the Betty White Challenge for sure,” says shelter director Tom Carney.
He says any money raised will be used for food, medication and making the animals comfortable, enriching their lives during their time at the shelter.
Devoe says Persian Dreams will use the money for veterinarian bills as well as food and litter.
“That $5 does add up when many people donate and we find a lot of people don’t just donate that $5, they will donate whatever they feel like,” she says.
Devoe adds all local rescues are in need of funds.
You can donate to the Betty White Challenge through Persian Dreams and Canine Themes or the SPCA.
Medicine Hat’s Alberta Pound and Rescue Centre also has a link on its website to donate to the Betty White Challenge, as does the Southern Alberta Humane Society’s website.
