The SA.MAST Animal Clinic has been caring for Khayelitsha’s animals for the past decade, and if they do not find new funders, they will be forced to close. The organisation has worked hard to alleviate the pain and suffering of the cats and dogs in the area, as well as manage their populations.
“A small portion of our funding is donated by compassionate South Africans, while the majority of our funding is received via grants from international donors,” founder Tamsin Nel said to IOL. “Due to the havoc Covid-19 has caused in Europe, our main international donor, the Brigitte Bardot Foundation has had to withdraw the 35 000 (around R593 000) grant made to us for the 2020 year because they themselves are now under strain.”
According to Nel, the organisation will not be able to pay its bills beyond the next two months. “We may have to close our doors temporarily – or even permanently,” she added. “I think I’m still in shock. The unthinkable is happening and we’ve had no time to prepare for the greatest crisis we’ve ever faced. Most of the SA.MAST staff are Khayelitsha residents, they often work late into the night and are at this very moment on the frontlines.”
“If we have to close our doors and then be forced to witness the resultant pain and suffering taking place because we’re not there to help, it would be our worst nightmare come true,” Nel added.
She has approached various companies to ask them to consider donating supplies, but is yet to receive any response.
Nel is appealing to the public to make donations of any amount they can spare. These can be made to SA.MAST Animal Clinic, First National Bank, Account Number 62833514012, Branch Code: 250655. Swift Code for International Transfers: FIRNZAJJ. Please use HOPE and Your Name as the reference.
Nel can also be directly contacted on 084 778 1215 or email her at [email protected] or visit www.samast.co.za to sign up as a debit order donor.
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