Yahoo News Lancashire RSPCA Christmas appeal - how you can help
As staff and volunteers at East Lancashire's RSPCA centre prepare to make Christmas a happy time for animals in their care, they are hoping the public can help sprinkle some seasonal magic.
A surprise shoebox full of favourite treats, blankets and toys can make Christmas that little bit more special for the dogs, cats, rabbits and guinea pigs spending Christmas in the shelter.
Many of the animals currently in their care are either victims of cruelty or neglect or have been abandoned or sadly given up, and a box full of goodies can make a huge difference for them at this time of the year. The charity’s Lancashire East Branch is hoping supporters, businesses, schools and community groups will once again get involved by filling a gift box with treats, toys and blankets and dropping it off at the centre.
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The dogs at the centre are really keen to have some puzzle feeders, toys and snuffle mats, while the guinea pigs and rabbits would very much appreciate play tunnels and treats. Meanwhile the cats, who are in the care of the centre’s wonderful team of fosterers, are hoping for some Lick-e-lix treats, food bowls and blankets.
Fostering Co-ordinator Sue Abraham, said: “While staff and volunteers do all they can to make Christmas special for the animals at our centre - it’s never quite the same as having a family and home to call their own.
"We started our shoebox appeal in 2016 and it’s always been a great success, thanks to the generosity of our amazing supporters. We had over 50 boxes donated last year and it’s lovely to be able to treat a rescue animal to some goodies while they wait for their forever home.
“Christmas 2024 will be no different - our team will be here looking after the animals, but being able to provide them all with a shoebox helps to spread a little bit of joy and happiness.”
Shoeboxes can be dropped off at the animal centre at Holker House Farm, Huncoat, Accrington between now and Christmas Eve. Keep an eye on the centre’s Facebook page on Christmas Day and Boxing Day for live feeds of the animals enjoying their gifts.
The RSPCA has launched its Join The Christmas Rescue campaign to help its frontline rescuers help more animals during the traditionally busy winter period and is calling on the support of the public. To help visit rspca.org.uk/winterappeal.
You can also donate directly to the Lancashire East Branch - a separate registered charity - which helps find loving new homes for unwanted, neglected and abandoned animals from Burnley, Blackburn with Darwen, Hyndburn, Pendle and the Ribble Valley.
