Social media can sometimes be frustrating and chaotic with memes and information that may or may not be trusted, but sometimes one of its intended purposes brings people together.
On December 16, 2023, BC SPCA-Powell River made a post online, indicating that its washing machine had broken down. Not only did qathet resident and business owner Karyne Bailey see the post, she immediately took on the mission to source one, but not all by herself.
"That day I put the word out, through social media, and was able to secure a gently used [washer] to get [SPCA] going again," said Bailey, in an email to the Peak. "Then that evening I did a little research and found out there was this new Maytag Pet Pro washer. They just came out last year and had great reviews."
However, that type of machine is not cheap; they go for just under $1,000.
Bailey had just finished donating to several other charities in town and didn't feel like she could take on forking out a grand on her own.
"Again I turned to social media; I made a post stating I will put in the first $100 from Oceanside Entertainment and challenged nine other businesses to step up and donate $100 each," said Bailey. "Both businesses and community members heard the call and helped with donations."
Bailey said within three days the full amount for the washer was raised.
"When I went into the Brick, I spoke to the manager Derek Gibson, and he kindly gave me the staff discount," said Bailey. "The amount raised covered the taxes and left me with a bit of money to give to the BC SPCA in Powell River for laundry detergent."
Bailey said the new washer has been delivered to the SPCA location at 7558 Duncan Street.
According to the BC SPCA website, the not-for-profit organization has 41 locations across BC and relies primarily on community donations to help animals in need.
Bailey thanked the following donors for their contributions: Carol Sawchuk, Sheri Moloughney, Heather Brown Bookkeeping, Heidi Bastien, Joanne Suche, Denise Spink, Deborah Calderon, Zenaida Cagampan, Sea Dreams, Pinetree Autobody, Helen Rasmussen and Maude Bay Ranch & Retreat.
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