A grassroots fundraising campaign has surpassed $360,000 in donations to aid community cat caretakers across Singapore, addressing the critical needs of stray felines and the volunteers who care for them. Launched by animal welfare group Cats of Singapore in partnership with local businesses, the initiative aimed to alleviate financial burdens on caregivers managing feral cat colonies amid rising living costs.
Grassroots Effort Meets Overwhelming Support
The month-long campaign, titled “Paws for Community Cats,” garnered donations from over 5,000 individuals and corporate sponsors. Funds will be distributed as grants to caregivers for veterinary care (including spay/neuter programs), food supplies, and shelter materials. Notable contributors include pet supply chain Pets’ Station, which matched the first $50,000 in donations, and online platform Giving.sg, which waived fundraising fees.
“Community cat caretakers often spend their own savings on stray cats, even as they face challenges like feeding bans and housing restrictions,” said campaign organizer Mei Lin Tan. “This funding will let them focus on humane care—like our ‘Trap-Neuter-Return’ program—without worrying about costs.”
Addressing Stray Cat Welfare Through Collaboration
Singapore’s estimated 20,000 stray cats have long been a divisive issue, with some viewing them as nuisances and others advocating for their protection. The campaign highlights how community caretaking—combined with sterilization efforts—has reduced stray populations by 32% since 2015, according to the Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS).
Dr. James Low of AVS praised the initiative: “Collaboration between volunteers, charities, and the public is key to sustainable stray management. These funds will support evidence-based practices that benefit both cats and communities.”
Donations to Fund Immediate and Long-Term Needs
While immediate funds will cover daily care, a portion of the donations will establish a reserve for emergency medical cases, such as treating cats with feline leukemia or injuries from traffic accidents. Caregiver Angie Ng, who manages 15 cats in Queenstown, expressed relief: “Last month, I spent $800 on a cat’s eye surgery. This grant means I can help more cats without struggling financially.”
The campaign’s success has inspired plans for an annual fundraiser, with organizers aiming to expand support to elderly caregivers and those in low-income neighborhoods. As Cats of Singapore noted in a statement: “Every dollar shows that Singaporeans value compassionate coexistence with our feline neighbors.”
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