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Harbour-Egmont Highlights: In honour of Betty White, donate to animal rescue organizations Jan. 17

Jan. 17 would have been Betty White's 100th birthday
Dilys Williams
A street cat rubs against the legs of a volunteer.
Betty White was a life-long animal rights activist. The legendary actress died Dec. 31. Monday, Jan. 17, would have been her 100th birthday. Konstantin Voronov / Getty Images

Thanks to all you good folks who have joined in the search for the tiny Sakinaw bear cub. There are extraordinary humans on our Coast protecting and saving wildlife on 24/7 who have led the search.

Sad to know that our area is still a hot spot for animal abuse – has been for years. I know from being on the community council with the BCSPCA. In some people’s minds, this is still the lawless wild west. Not long ago, pet bunnies were dumped during the cold snap in downtown Madeira Park. Just one example that was made public. Most are not. Many folks spent days and nights searching for and saving most of those sweet souls. They went into care with our BCSPCA and were adopted into loving, forever homes. They could have been taken to the BCSPCA in the first place. No pet deserves to be dumped. Wildlife in distress deserve help.

My inspiration for this column is Betty White. As many of you who have read my column for years and those who know me, animal advocacy is my middle name. Jan. 17 would have been Betty White’s 100th birthday and is the day of the Betty White Challenge. I know she’ll be watching from above. Donate $5 (or more) to any of the fine non-profit animal rescue organizations such as Sunshine Coast BCSPCA, Kitchensink Farm and Sanctuary, Gibsons Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre and Sunshine Coast Bear Alliance, to name a few.

A treasure in the Harbour is the Pender Harbour Reading Centre and the Sunshine Credit Union knows that for a fact. They have generously donated $2,000 to The Reading Centre to pay for all 2022 memberships. What a fabulous gift, our memberships are free this year! Please note, the centre will be closed Friday, Jan. 14 as the access ramp is being finished. Also, during hours of operation one person at a time will be allowed in the centre. Thanks to all the lovely, helpful, hardworking volunteers. You make our visits to the centre most enjoyable.

Have you bought your Rotary 50/50 tickets? Purchasing tickets is a win-win for you and the community. January and February proceeds will go towards the care of our Pender Harbour Community Hall. Buy your lucky tickets at penderharbourrotary.rafflenexus.com or Google “Pender Harbour Rotary Raffle” or visit their Facebook page.

Contact me if you need more info on donating to the Betty White Challenge and anytime with your news  at dilysanne@hotmail.com for the Coast Reporter.