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The SPCA hosted its annual fundraiser ‘Animals by Night’ on Friday the 5th of November 2021; a fun evening bringing animal lovers, sponsors, and talented Namibian artists together in aid of the animals at the SPCA.
The event was proudly sponsored by FNB, Safari Court Hotel, and Something Artsy. The musician Savannah Collins performed, Sascha Belly Dancer riled up the crowd with her moves, and artists Cindel Schoeman, Jodine Strauss, Frans Uunona, and Scharlarco Visagie mesmerized the 120 something guests with their captivating live paintings. There was a Silent Auction encouraging friendly bidding - all in aid of the animals. The venue was tastefully decorated and held in Safari Court Hotels spacious outdoor pool garden where guests could claim their own lapa and table and ensure safe COVID-19 precautions and social distancing. The guests could be seen enjoying a drink, the entertainment, and each other’s company. And people from all walks of life joined together in support of the animals who need it the most.
During the evening, FNB generously donated N$100,000.00 to SPCA Windhoek’s Dixie’s Fund. Dixie’s Fund is specifically dedicated to the ordinary and extraordinary medical and veterinary treatments and interventions that the animals at the SPCA so desperately need. In the last year alone, the SPCA sterilized over 500 animals, administered over 2,200 vaccines, and performed 110 other procedures (including x-rays, pinning of broken legs, amputations, and dental work). The SPCA is incredibly appreciative of FNB’s continued and impactful support. Thanks to FNB, the SPCA can do more for the many animals that come through its shelter doors and be sure to make a difference in their lives.
Revonia Kahivere, FirstRand Namibia CSI Manager, in turn expressed her appreciation towards work done by the SPCA. “We thank you from the bottom of our hearts and know that the funds will be used wisely to look after our loving companions.” Kahivere added that the companionship of animals and the positive influence they have on people has become even more obvious since the outbreak of the pandemic as COVID-19 enforced isolation and segregation from the ‘normal’ life as well as long stretches working from home when the pandemic was at its peak.
“Earlier this year, the loss of our daily routines as we knew them — and the threat of more serious casualties from COVID-19 — put a serious emotional strain on all of us. So perhaps it should come as no surprise that pets can help reduces stress and anxiety, particularly when you are experiencing a stressful situation – because they provide non-judgmental emotional support. When taking all the above into consideration – it is no wonder that we, at FNB Namibia, are happy to once again support the SPCA with an amount of N$100,000.00 towards the Dixie Fund.”
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected all of our lives in unimaginable ways and has left its dent on the economy. Fundraising opportunities and in-person events have been impacted by the pandemic and at the SPCA, an influx of animals coming in due to financial reasons and COVID-19 directly. The food storages at the SPCA have never been so empty from donated food. For reasons like these, the ability to host the fundraiser ‘Animals by Night’, where an additional N$50,000.00 was raised, has never been more important and FNB’s generous donation of N$100,000.00 has never been more impactful and inspiring.