CHARITIES across the nation are doing it tougher than ever this year, and the RSPCA says it has been no different for them.
In fact, the financial crunch has hit so hard the RSPCA and those locals who fundraise for it say that it will end its Million Paws Walk this year after three decades of operation.
The fundraiser has provided $17 million for needy animals over the years but the RSPCA said the fundraising landscape had radically altered since 2020.
“We have seen a year-on-year decline in participants attending our walks and fundraising, especially since 2020 – that year and those that followed have thrown a spanner in the works on how we host events,” RSPCA spokeswoman Emma Lagoon said.
“We now find it much harder to engage with our fundraisers; that gap with the funding received and our costs is growing.
“The decision to stop the Million Paws Walk was not taken lightly.
“However, the financial strain on animal lovers and increasing event costs has meant Million Paws Walk is no longer able to provide what it once could to the community while also effectively fundraising for much-needed RSPCA services.
“The RSPCA feels it best to channel resources directly to support the animals in our care, and ensure every dollar donated to our cause supports the critical services and care that have become increasingly costly to provide.”
From 2017-2019, Ipswich held its very own Million Paws Walk.
“The three years it was held, Ipswich City Council hosted the event on the RSPCA’s behalf which was wonderful, but covid changed the future of these walk and we haven’t been able to support them in the region ever since because of resourcing,” Ms Lagoon said.
She said a North Tamborine Million Paws Walk was also held for several years but funds also began to decline five years ago.
“We had an amazing volunteer who ran the Tamborine walks pre-2020, but we weren’t able to secure another local walk coordinator to run the fundraiser after that.”
RSPCA’s Million Paws Walk final event in 2025 will be one of reflection on the passing of an era.
“The RSPCA couldn’t achieve what we do each and every day without everyone’s compassionate, generosity and fun spirit,” Ms Lagoon said.
“The RSPCA hopes everyone will step up as a superhero for animals in need to be involved for the final walkies in May, as the event is farewelled.
“While it will be sad to see our much-loved event go, let’s make this last lap the biggest and best event showcasing your love for all creatures great and small.”
RSPCA Queensland hosts its final fundraising walk events at eight locations across the state on Sunday, May 25, including at UQ St Lucia in Brisbane.
