Heritage puts animals first with donation to RSPCA Queensland
9 June 2020
People first is the mantra of Heritage Bank, but on this occasion a generous donation to RSPCA Queensland has put vulnerable animals first.
Each year, Heritage Bank invites the community to collect a copy of its annual calendar for a gold coin donation, with the proceeds donated to a number of charities across southern Queensland.
Heritage has made a contribution of more than $4,000 to RSPCA Queensland from the sale of its 2020 calendars to support the important work in caring for and re-homing animals in RSPCA centres.
This donation is especially timely given the impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on RSPCA Queensland’s operations.
All RSPCA Adoption Centres are closed to the public while some RSPCA Op-Shops are either temporarily closed or experiencing reduced business due to the COVID-19 response.
That has negatively affected some of the RSPCA’s regular fundraising activities as their costs in caring for hundreds of animals at any one time remain.
Heritage Bank Area Branch Manager Debbie Lesleighter toured RSPCA Queensland’s Dakabin centre to visit the devoted team continuing to look after a variety of vulnerable animals while much of the community is understandably focused on the human impacts of the COVID pandemic.
“I think it’s great that Heritage has been able to do this. These funds will help them get through COVID,” she said.
RSPCA Queensland relies on donations and community support to fund up to 96 per cent of its annual costs, so the generosity of businesses like Heritage is crucial in keeping the vital service operating.
“All of us at RSPCA Queensland are very grateful for the support,” RSPCA Queensland spokesman Michael Beatty said.
“The lockdowns have had a major effect on our fundraising activities but our Inspectorate, animal rescue officers and wildlife hospital staff have been busier than ever.
“It’s terrific that the work we do in the community has been recognised by another organisation that takes community values seriously.”
Animal lovers can head to www.rspcaqld.org.au to donate to support RSPCA Queensland or adopt a pet.
