Lend a paw to support charity through lockdown
An animal charity fears the virus crisis could have lasting effect on its fundraising efforts.
Wings and Paws, which rescues sick and unwanted animals, only opened its first charity shop in December. But it was forced to close again soon afterwards as the latest lockdown began.
Now it has turned to online fundraising to try and keep some money coming in including a Sunday Funday fundraiser on Facebook.
But Clare Vowles, trustee of Wings and Paws, said there remains uncertainty over the future.
She said: “The shop was doing well and was a great for the support of the charity.
"It was great to have a consistent income coming in, as with some restrictions still in place it was hard to fundraise and raise money by other means for the charity.
"We have lots of ideas within Wings and Paws and how we can raise money, but with lockdown and restrictions it’s hard to get fun and exciting fundraising events together, which is sad.
“We also appreciate that it’s a hard time for everyone at the moment whether that be financially or mentally, so it’s a shame we can’t put our ideas out there and get our community involved.”
There are fears that there may be a lasting impact on the charity due to the pandemic.
Mrs Vowles added: “We had so many plans for the shop including opening a micro team room which we haven’t yet been able to do.
"In such uncertain times, who knows when we’ll be able to get this up and running. And again, Wings and Paws Rescue are missing out on funding because of this.”
During lockdown the shop is also inviting children to take part in its shop window quiz with £5 and £10 vouchers to be won with details posted on Facebook.
Mrs Vowles said: “We have over 6,000 followers on our Wings and Paws rescue page, so if each and every follower pledged just a £1 a month, we would have a consistent income of £6,000 a month.
“This would be life changing for the animals in our care.”
“We really do appreciate the support we get.”
