JERSEY SHORE – Local animal shelters have recently been raising thousands of dollars to help homeless animals in need thanks to the virtual event honoring late actress Betty White.
After the news broke that America’s Golden Girl had passed at the end of 2021, the internet wanted to honor her and celebrate her 100th birthday by creating the “Betty White Challenge.”
The virtual event was held on January 17 (White’s birthday) through social media asking fans to donate to their local animal rescues or shelters in her name, as she was a devoted animal lover and an animal rights activist.
The Monmouth County SPCA was one of many organizations that participated in the challenge, raising nearly $16,000 through Facebook donations.
“On January 17, Betty White would have turned 100 years old, and what a life she lived! An animal lover since she could walk and a celebrated animal advocate for the rest of her life into adulthood. We’ve gotten quite a few donations in Betty’s honor but we wanted to make her birthday weekend the official donation period to show our appreciation for her life’s work!” the Monmouth County SPCA said.
The group shared the story on how the donations have helped one of their dogs in need, Amos.
“Amos was one of the over 60 dogs and puppies rescued from unspeakable neglect from the Belford hoarding case. Amos was matted with his own urine and feces from living in a small cage, had skin and ear infections and was petrified from little to no human contact. Thankfully, after these dogs were rescued and with the help of a lot of dedicated people, we worked with them for weeks to get them healthy and ready for adoption,” the Monmouth County SPCA said.
Over at the Associated Humane Popcorn Park Shelter in Forked River, the group collected over $60,000 in donations through the challenge.
“All three of our shelters and our Refuge participated in the Betty White Challenge, and it was a huge success! Across our entire organization, we were able to raise over $60,000 for the animals in our care,” Danielle Mania, Director of Marketing & Development from the Associated Humane Societies, said. “We’re truly touched from all the kindness and generosity, all in honor of Betty White! It was truly an incredible day for animals.”
Mickey, who is a senior Beagle at the Popcorn Park shelter, is one of the many animals who is benefiting from the Betty White Challenge donations.
“Mickey is a senior Beagle who recently arrived at our Popcorn Park shelter after his owner entered a long-term care facility. Although Mickey was very loved in his former home, he has some underlying medical issues that need to be addressed. Our veterinarian discovered that Mickey has significant dental disease and a large mass over his left eye that appears painful. Mickey also has a grade three heart murmur, so we’re treating him with the best possible care,” Mania said. “For now, Mickey is enjoying cozy beds, good meals, and lots of extra TLC from our staff. He’s a real sweetheart and we look forward to the day when he’s ready to find a loving home to spend the rest of his days in.”
Several other shelters in the shore area such as SAVE Rescue Shelter in Toms River, Jersey Shore Animal Center in Brick Township and more all took part to honor the actress. According to Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, the viral fundraising efforts have raised $12.7 million collectively on the platforms.
