Oliver’s Paws N Claws Freedom Rescue Society is going digital for their October fundraising this year.
With the annual Festival of the Grape cancelled due to COVID-19, but with the need for their services not taking the same break, the society has taken to Facebook to run their fall fundraiser.
“I’ve been running the group for years,” said founder Joeline Laliberte. “We’re just super busy now, we’re more recognized.”
A total of $2,500 worth of items have been donated, including many wines from local wineries.
“We tried to keep it kind of wine specific, to replace the Grape Festival,” said Laliberte.
Bids are accepted through comments on the auction post on the Paws N Claws Freedom Rescue Society page.
All of the proceeds from the auction go towards supporting the society and ensuring the animals they rescue get the care, food, and help they need. Some animals need vetrinary care, beyond simple check-ups, shots, or neutering, which the funds support.
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The society became a fully incorporated rescue this year, although it has been running for years, and it will be fully recognized as a charity by the government next year, allowing them to apply for government grants. They will still need support from locals to keep their operations going, alongside their work with other groups in the Okanagan-Similkameen.
“We work with other rescue groups in the area; CritterAid, SPCA, the AlleyCats, and the Okanagan Humane Society,” said Laliberte. “We all work together to do the same thing: to save as many we can, help as many as we can, animals and families alike.”
The auction is currently running, and closes at 7 p.m. on Sept. 29.
The society also welcomes new volunteers, foster homes, and adopters willing to help. Those interested in supporting the society can also donate bottles for returns. More information about the society and how to help can be found at their website at pawclaws.ca.
Winning bidders are asked to pick up their prizes and bring their payment to the Oliver Elementary School upper parking lot on Sept. 30 between 3 and 6 p.m.
Alternate pick up days, times, and locations can be arranged through private message on the group’s Facebook page.
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