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Mandela Day 2018 with RTD – BE KIND TO ANIMALS
by WCDOA pubs
by Pavarni Jorgensen
IIn the spirit of the centennial Mandela Day 2018 campaign for people to commit 100 minutes of their time to help change the world around them, the Programme: Research and Technology Development (RTD) chose to support the Animal Welfare Society Stellenbosch (AWSS), a non-government and independent notfor-profit organisation for the welfare of animals. Their mission is to recognise animals as living beings with the right to a good quality life and achieve this through providing veterinary care, inspectorate services, education, a kennel and cattery, and a successful adoption programme.
The staff of the Directorates Plants Sciences and Research Support Services donated generously, contributing money towards buying food for the animals. Besides donating food and money, the animal scientists also volunteered to spend time at the shelter and walk the dogs through the vineyard.
Nelius Nel, a trust student with the Directorate: Animal Sciences, described the experience as “bittersweet”. He said: “While it is saddening to see so many animals in need of loving homes, the animals at AWSS are extremely well cared for by motivated staff and provided the best possible environment in trying circumstances. Interactions with the animals are also a welcome opportunity for students who cannot yet adopt pets of their own.”
RTD donated a total of 200kg of dog and cat food, blankets and towels, litter boxes and kitty litter, and two second-hand panel heaters.
Comment From Charity
“The RTD team’s generosity and commitment to helping animals enable us to rehabilitate and find homes for hundreds of animals each year,” said Jessica Perrins, head of fundraising and communication at AWSS. “On behalf of the AWSS staff and all the animals we serve, thank you so much for believing in second chances. We couldn’t continue without you.”
It was clear that the volunteers enjoyed the experience as much as the tail-wagging recipients! AP
For more information, contact Pavarni Jorgensen: PavarniJ@elsenburg.com
