Central Virginia animal shelters, organizations ask for donations for Giving Tuesday

RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - Non-profit animal shelters and organizations around central Virginia are accepting donations for Giving Tuesday. The major holiday shopping days have come and gone, but consider shelling out a little more cash for a good cause.

“This is money that will go to our life-saving work,” said Robyn Young, Outreach Coordinator for Richmond Animal Care and Control.

“Giving Tuesday” is a day of generosity meant to encourage people to do good.

It’s a big day for RACC, as an anonymous donor is matching donations up to $100,000 through the end of the year.

“We know that we can say ‘yes’ to any animal that comes in, in need: if it’s emergency care, or if its special treatment,” Young said.

She adds that the cash is always needed for the care of almost 200 animals at their shelter.

If you want your money to go further, the Richmond SPCA says a donor will triple-match donations to the shelter, up to $7,000.

“You’re helping with life-saving activities for cats like Schmidt,” Carol Anne Lejoie, the SPCA’s director of development, said.

“It was really a life-threatening sickness that required a lot of intense treatment from our internal vet team,” she said of Schmidt’s history.

A day like today gives cats like Schmidt another chance at life. But if it’s not in your budget, perhaps consider giving another resource: volunteer time.

“You’re helping the Red Cross alleviate human suffering, whether its supporting patients at area hospitals or being there for somebody after a home fire,” said Jonathan McNamara with the American Red Cross.

The American Red Cross is currently facing a 10 year low on blood supplies, so every drop counts right now.

“That really has a ripple effect in our ability to be there for hospital,” McNamara said, adding, “Today is the perfect day to make that investment in our mission, whether its the Red Cross or other great organizations in our community.”

Blood donors with the American Red Cross can also get Amazon gift cards, or be entered into contests. Info can be found here.

Donation info for RACC, Richmond SPCA, and other local shelters can be found below:

Henrico Humane Society

The Henrico Humane Society, a non-profit organization that addresses the number of homeless animals in the greater Richmond area, asks for donations for Giving Tuesday!

“All of you have helped us to fulfill our goal of placing animals in need in loving forever homes. We are so grateful you chose to adopt.”

To donate, click here.

Lab Rescue of Greater Richmond

Lab Rescue of Greater Richmond is a non-profit, foster-based rescue that rescues and rehomes Labs in need from Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina and West Virginia.

The non-profit says donations make the real difference when it comes to helping dogs in the world of rescue.

To donate, click here.

Richmond Animal League

Richmond Animal League provides hope and homes for animals in need. Over 2,564 of the most in need pets were transferred into the Richmond Animal League’s car within the past two years.

“On Giving Tuesday we are reminded of how meaningful these numbers truly are. Every single number represents a life saved thanks to all the love, time, and kindness you have given Richmond Animal League.”

To donate to the Richmond Animal League, click here.

Richmond Ruff House

Richmond Ruff House is a volunteer dog rescue organization serving Richmond, VA and the surrounding counties.

Richmond Ruff House is asking those to donate $5 or $500 for Giving Tuesday.

To donate, click here.

Richmond SPCA

The Richmond SPCA is a non-profit, no-kill humane society in Richmond, Virginia, founded in 1891.

All gifts toward Richmond SPCA that will be made during Giving Tuesday, will be tripled by an anonymous donor up to $7,000! Donations to the Richmond SPCA will support life-saving work in the humane center and veterinary hospital each day.

To donate, click here.

Richmond Wildlife Center

The Richmond Wildlife Center takes care of animals from hawks to opossums and other animals. Especially animals who end up getting hit by vehicles during the harsh winter months.

Feeding predators and birds of prey are very expensive, with each shipment averaging $498.00. Expenses such as surgeries and medical supplies also add up. Richmond Wildlife Center says your contribution will make an impact, whether you donate $5 or $500. Every little bit helps.

For more information, click here. To donate, click here.

Smitty’s Cat Shelter

Smitty’s Cat Shelter is a no-kill non-profit shelter. They are providing a safe environment for homeless and unwanted cats and kittens until they find forever homes.

This year, Smitty’s Cat Shelter took in close to 200 kittens who need medical, vaccines, spayed & neutered.

For Giving Tuesday, the shelter is asking for donations. Click here to donate.

SPCA of Petersburg & Colonial Heights

The SPCA of Petersburg and Colonial Heights asks donors to donate food for the animals in the community.

Click here to view the organization’s Amazon Wish List.

Donations can also be dropped off at 104 Pickwick Avenue, Colonial Heights, Va. 23834.

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