Animal shelters see donation boost due to viral Betty White tribute

Jan 18, 2022 | Headlines, News

Several GTA animal shelters want to thank fans of Betty White for “being a friend” and taking part in a viral fundraising effort.

Multiple shelters across the country are taking part in an online initiative called The Betty White Challenge. The idea was to send donations on Jan. 17 to various animal shelters in memory of the late actress, who was a supporter of animal welfare. The challenge began on what would have been her 100-year birthday. Betty White passed away on New Year’s Eve of 2021.

The Toronto Humane Society says it received over $86,000 in donations thanks to the challenge so far.

“I’ve seen a lot of people commenting “great post,” “thank you for sharing this,” “just donated,” things of that nature,” said Hannah Sotropa, Assistant Manager of Communications at the Toronto Humane Society. “So the overall tone from our supporters in joining the initiative’s been overall positive.”

The challenge has not been limited to the Toronto area.

The Oakville & Milton Humane Society has reached its target of $30,000, according to John Bugailiskis, Manager of Marketing and Communications at OMHS.

The Ontario Society for the Prevention of Animal Cruelty and Humane Society have also seen a significant uptick in donations, thanks to their supporters who also participated in the challenge.

“The Ontario SPCA received over $120,000 worth of donations in light of the Betty White challenge,” said Kallie Milleman, a Media Relations Specialist at Ontario SPCA, “and we are so grateful and thankful for everyone who donated and really appreciate all of our incredible donators for their support.”

The OSPCA is even distributing Betty White-themed eCards to thank people for their donations.