BUFFALO, N.Y. — Animal lovers and Betty White fans came together across Western New York to honor the late star on what would have been her 100th birthday on Monday.
The #BettyWhiteChallenge asked people to donate to their favorite animal charity in her honor. Many people stepped up to donate, and some charities and shelters in the area received over $10,000 in donations on Monday.
The outpouring of support was very much appreciated by all the charities, with many taking to social media to thank everyone who donated.
“It’s a beautiful thing that Betty White is still helping animals even when she’s gone,” said Kimberly LaRussa, public relations manager for Ten Lives Club. “I think the Betty White Challenge allowed everyone to feel good about doing something kind for animals in her name and we are so grateful.”
"I just want to say thank you to everybody," said Bethany Kloc, a communications manager for the SPCA Serving Erie County.
The SPCA Serving Erie County has already received $25,000 and is still accepting donations.
Other area shelters reporting totals above $10,000 include White Whiskers Senior Dog Sanctuary that received almost $15,000, Ten Lives Club Inc. received $15,000, Joyful Rescues reported over $13,000, and the City of Buffalo Animal Shelter got $10,800.
Second Chance Sheltering Network Inc. posted on social media that they received a total of over $3,000.
Many animal charities started Facebook fundraisers for the challenge in addition to collecting donations on their website.
Here are some totals from Facebook fundraisers:
- Buddy's Second Chance Rescue received $8,125
- Tabby Town Cat Adoption Center received over $2,800
- Niagara SPCA received $1,061
- Pixie Mamas Rescue received $860