Animal shelters ‘blown away’ by donations in honor of Betty White
CHELMSFORD, MASSACHUSETTS >> Betty White’s 100th birthday on Monday was bittersweet, following the beloved actress and comedian’s death just weeks prior. But the “Golden Girl” still ended up doing a world of good for a cause that was important to her — rescuing animals.
“I’ve had many conversations with Betty about animal welfare, and I know she’s looking down from heaven and really smiling,” said Robin Ganzert, who leads American Humane, an animal welfare organization that White was involved with for more than 60 years.
“She’ll be smiling on her birthday,” she said. “And she’ll be smiling about the lives she’s changed.”
It isn’t exactly clear who started the #BettyWhiteChallenge on social media shortly after White’s death on Dec. 31. However it began, the idea — to donate $5 to a local animal rescue organization in White’s name on her birthday — quickly took off and drew support from celebrities like actors Mark Hamill and George Takei on Twitter.
Boston-area shelters felt the love.
The Newhouse Wildlife Rescue in Chelmsford was “blown away” after raising $17,000 on White’s birthday — enough to get the shelter ready for “baby season.”
“I have always loved and respected this woman as an actress, comedian and fellow animal lover, but today that respect goes much further,” Newhouse posted to Facebook. “I am truly inspired by this incredible woman and I am so thankful for her and for all of you.”
At the Animal Rescue League of Boston, more than 1,200 donations poured in Monday — all in honor of White. MSPCA-Angell has also reported receiving thousands of dollars in donations in connection with the challenge.
In Uxbridge, Pawfect Life Rescue was aiming to raise $3,000 on White’s birthday — but ended up raking in more than $8,000 from the community.
“She’s taught us the value of coming together for the common good, by helping care for our four legged companions who have no voice,” the dog rescue said.