Betty White (Photo courtesy of Angela George via wikimedia commons)Betty White (Photo courtesy of Angela George via wikimedia commons)
London

'Betty White Challenge' bringing extra funds to London humane society

A viral internet challenge in honour of the late legendary actress Betty White has sparked an increase in donations to the Humane Society London and Middlesex.

The animal shelter is benefitting from the so-called #BettyWhiteChallenge, which asks people to donate $5 or more to a local animal shelter, rescue operation, or animal welfare organization in memory of the Golden Girls star.

White, a devoted animal lover and television icon, passed away on December 31 at the age of 99. The online challenge was launched soon after asking fans to donate on what would have been White's 100th birthday on January 17.

Ahead of that date, the Humane Society London and Middlesex has already begun receiving donations in White's honour.

"We first started getting some cheques and in the memo it said #BettyWhiteChallenge and that is when we first knew there was something going on here," said Executive Director Steve Ryall. "We are always open to receiving donations. We are not funded by any level of government. We rely 100 per cent on donations from individuals and corporations."

Ryall said the extra funds couldn't come at a better time as the shelter has about 250 animals in its care, approximately 50 of which are currently up for adoption.

"We have never had 50 animals available for adoption at one time," said Ryall. "Adoptions have definitely slowed down over Christmas and January is traditionally a slower month for adoptions. The longer an animal stays up for adoption there is a risk of it getting a cold or a sniffle from being inside the shelter. We really just want to put animals in their homes."

Money donated through the Betty White Challenge will go toward operational costs at the Humane Society including to pay for veterinary bills, food, and cleaning.

"[Donating] is a great way to recognize Betty White and all that she did for the animal world," added Ryall.

White fiercely advocated for the welfare of animals and worked to save endangered species. She regularly supported shelters and adopted many rescued animals.

Those interested in donating to the Humane Society London and Middlesex for the Betty White Challenge can do so by clicking here. To see the list of animals up for adoption at the shelter click here.

Read More Local Stories