Today would have been Betty White’s 100th birthday. There is a viral movement on social media asking everyone to donate just $5 to an animal charity to honor her memory. If you can afford to give more, do so, but the idea is that the littlest amount from many can make a big difference. Here are a few suggestions.
Actors and Others for Animals was founded in 1971 was to utilize celebrity to bring attention to the plight of animals. Betty White served on the Board of Directors and the organization created a Betty White Inspiration Award in her honor. DONATE
Best Friends Animal Society in Los Angeles works with a variety of animal rescue groups and city shelters with the goal of making Los Angeles a no-kill city. Best Friends hosts adoption and fundraising events, runs the Best Friends Lifesaving Center in Mission Hills, and leads the NKLA (No-kill Los Angeles) initiative. Consider fostering a pet during this critical time. DONATE
Lifelines for Felines, aka Punks for Pussies, started with one man and a litter of kittens in an abandoned auto graveyard. It has grown into a rescue organization with a mission to find homes for homeless cats and kittens, to catch, spay, neuter, feed, prevent cruelty to, and provide medical care for them as needed. The group also aims to provide sanctuary for feral and special needs cats. This is as grass roots as it gets, where you can really make a difference. DONATE
Safe in Austin is an organization that was highlighted in a moving episode of Queer Eye: More than a Makeover in its latest season. This small charity runs a rescue for disabled and injured animals. People with disabilities then volunteer to help the animals, and everyone benefits. DONATE
Santé D’Or Foundation is a volunteer-run animal pet adoption center on Los Feliz in Atwater. You may have seen them getting a makeover on My Cat from Hell. The rescue takes in cats from the streets and those who are surrendered by residents experiencing extreme financial hardship, a crisis, or those who are no longer able to care for them. Their approach to animal rescue and adoption places the focus on the whole health care of rescued animals, as well as the bigger picture of our neighborhoods and the planet at large. The adoption center is friendly, welcoming and open to the public. The cats are allowed to roam freely and play. Consider adopting or volunteering. DONATE
