Betty White Challenge helps animal shelters across Canada
Posted January 17, 2022 8:11 am.
Last Updated January 17, 2022 10:48 am.
Betty White’s compassion for animals is carrying on, despite the actress’ passing late last month.
The Betty White Challenge was launched on social media shortly after the comedian’s death, encouraging fans to make $5 donations to local animal shelters, rescues, and charities.
The BC SPCA is among the organizations to have received an influx of donations in White’s name, even before Jan. 17, which would have been the Golden Girls’ star’s 100th birthday.
AMAZING!! Just spoke with the @BC_SPCA and although the day has just begun, they’ve already received over $15,000 in donations in Betty White’s honour!!
What a legacy #BettyWhiteChallenge #HappyBirthdayBettyWhite #GoodNews cc: @kissradiohits pic.twitter.com/tkdxbv5lrv
— Kevin Lim (@KevinLimOnAir) January 17, 2022
Even before the day began, the BC SPCA said it had received over $64,000 in donations. That figure is only expected to rise on what would have been White’s centennial.
“It’s just phenomenal, absolutely phenomenal,” said Eileen Drever, BC SPCA senior officer of protection and stakeholder relations. “Betty White certainly was a voice for all animals and it’s really a pity she never made her 100th birthday. But what a legacy she’s left.”
Just heard from the @BC_SPCA – they had received over $64,000 through the #BettyWhiteChallenge *before* the day even began!
Expect updated numbers from them early this aft and again this evening. @CityNewsVAN https://t.co/tRWKzxR77t
— Greg Bowman (@gregbowman_) January 17, 2022
Drever says the public’s motivations are a clear indication of people’s admiration for White and her work.
“This money raised will go toward many different programs, for example, it could be sheltering, cruelty investigations, emergency medical funds, rehabilitation, and education,” she added.
Keisha Sands is among the many people to decide to take part to remember White.
“I’m just a sucker for animals,” Sands told CityNews. “Anytime we can help out those who can’t speak for themselves, I’m all for it.”
Sands and her family donated food to the Prince George Humane Society in White’s honour. She says she felt compelled to give back, adding pets have a healing power.
these boys are the reason why we’re doing the #BettyWhiteChallenge. we are giving dog food to #CityOfPG humane society & animal rescue! we loved her as kitty’s mother in #That70sShow (& everything else). we love that she loved & spoke for those who couldn’t speak for themselves. pic.twitter.com/vhawdc8SoY
— keisha | nêhiyaw-iskwêw ♊️???? (@keiishaxo) January 17, 2022
“It’s sad that she’s gone,” Sands said of White, talking about the Hollywood star’s many contributions to shelters and even her audience.
“This kind of viral, international challenge is probably one of the smartest challenges,” the B.C. woman said. “It’s very special. Anything we can do to help animals, or family is all for it.”
“Knowing that other people, everywhere, are going to be giving what they can to their animal shelters is really special.”
Charities and shelters across Canada are participating in the #BettyWhiteChallenge, hoping to raise much-needed funds.
Would you like to help animals like Holly?
In honour of Betty White’s birthday tomorrow, animal lovers from around the world will be donating to animal welfare causes in her name. Donate to us today and honour Betty White here: https://t.co/nF51F6p9dm#BettyWhiteChallenge pic.twitter.com/04kEPhxhJI
— Toronto Humane Society (@THS_tweet) January 17, 2022
White was an avid animal rights advocate. Her involvement with the cause goes back to her childhood when she cared for homeless pets. She went on to host her own weekly TV show called The Pet Set, a program dedicated to her friends and their pets. White was involved with the animal welfare organization American Humane for more than 60 years.
