SPCA Uitenhage has raised R797,933 in just 18 days towards securing a new property after confirming that it must vacate its current premises, even as the organisation continues to deal with the fallout from a recent donation scam involving an unauthorised individual.
The total includes money donated directly to the SPCA account, as well as money donated via a crowdfunding platform, BackaBuddy.
UD Express previously reported that the organisation has until 20 February 2026 to raise R2.7 million to purchase a property that would ensure its continued operation in Kariega, Despatch, Addo, Kirkwood and surrounding areas.
Chairperson Deirdré Swift said the fundraising momentum had been encouraging, particularly given the challenges the organisation has faced in recent weeks.
“We have been overwhelmed by the support from the community. Every contribution brings us closer to securing a permanent home and ensuring that our doors never close,” Swift said.
The fundraiser, known as the Rebuild SPCA Fund, was launched after the organisation confirmed it was facing eviction, placing its future, and the welfare of thousands of animals, at risk.
Swift said the urgency of the campaign had unfortunately coincided with an incident in which a man allegedly collected money from members of the public while falsely claiming to represent SPCA Uitenhage.
“We were quite shocked when we heard about the gentleman who was supposedly collecting money on our behalf. We are very grateful to the members of the public who alerted us, as that ultimately led to the matter being addressed.”
She described the incident as deeply disappointing, particularly during a period when the organisation is financially vulnerable. “It is very disappointing to think that people would take advantage of an animal welfare organisation at a time like this.”
Swift said the SPCA has since appealed to the public to ensure that all donations are made through verified channels.
She stressed that no individual is authorised to collect funds on behalf of the organisation unless they are wearing official SPCA uniform, have valid identification, or have been formally approved by the SPCA.
“Anyone who is legitimately assisting us with fundraising will have our approval, and we are aware of who they are,” she said.
She also cautioned the public to ensure that physical donations are delivered directly to the SPCA through the main remote-controlled gate, noting that the organisation no longer has access to the front office or veranda area.
“Anybody wanting to donate, adopt, or seek our assistance should come to the big gate and hoot. We will open for them,” Swift said.
Despite these challenges, Swift said community support has remained strong and has been critical in keeping the organisation operational.
“There are so many people helping us in a myriad of ways. We ask the community to continue supporting us, while also being vigilant and checking whether something is legitimate,” she said.
Swift added that the response so far was an encouraging indication of how seriously animal welfare is regarded by many in the community.
“We are very happy with the support we have received so far. It is a wonderful indication that, to many, like us, animal welfare is a priority. We remain hopeful and positive that a solution will be found.”
She confirmed that the property identified by the organisation is located in Kariega, which falls within the SPCA’s designated area of operation.
SPCA Uitenhage has appealed to businesses, community members, and animal welfare supporters locally and internationally to assist where possible, noting that 18A tax certificates are available on request.
Members of the public seeking to verify fundraising efforts or to make enquiries can contact SPCA Uitenhage on 041 922 4528 or 060 985 0804.
For direct donations, visit the official BackaBuddy page.
