Paying it forward for animals

By JIM HILDEBRAND

The Pilot

In a letter to Benjamin Webb dated April 25, 1784, Benjamin Franklin wrote, “I do not pretend to give such a Sum; I only lend it to you. When you [...] meet with another honest Man in similar Distress, you must pay me by lending this Sum to him; enjoining him to discharge the Debt by a like operation, when he shall be able, and shall meet with another opportunity. I hope it may thus go thro' many hands, before it meets with a Knave that will stop its Progress. This is a trick of mine for doing a deal of good with a little money.”

This is the concept commonly referred to as “Pay It Forward.” Furthermore this concept can even be found as a key plot element in the play “Dyskolos” by Menander in ancient Athens in 317 BC.

When Sheila Anstey-Greenham viewed an episode of Oprah that dealt with “Pay It Forward” and how people were moved to help individuals and groups, she made it her mission to come to the assistance of the SPCA for all the good they do in providing care, food and shelter to homeless animals. 

In December of 2010, Ms. Anstey-Greenham obtained permission from various managers of grocery stores on Twillingate Island and New World Island to set up donation boxes for a food and supply drive, collecting pet food, cleaners, cat litter and other everyday needs of the SPCA. It proved to be a success. She repeated the drive again this past December and again was touched by the generosity of the people who have donated to her personal project. The Gander and Area SPCA is also appreciative to receive supplies that help them care for animals that require their attention.

The Gander and Area S.P.C.A is a non-profit organization aimed at finding good homes for the many abandoned, abused and unwanted animals. They are also determined to educate the public in the proper care of animals. The Gander and Area S.P.C.A has been in operation for approximately 15 years. They are a small group of about 30, consisting mainly of volunteers who strive to keep the shelter doors open. Their funding is mainly through adoptions, fundraisers, and donations made by the generosity of the general public.