The BC SPCA is asking people to “bake a difference” with its annual Cupcake Day. By baking cupcakes and then giving them away for a donation, participants can improve the lives of abused, abandoned, and neglected animals in our communities.
National Cupcake Day is a cross-country event presented by the BC SPCA, the Ontario SPCA, and participating humane societies, and this year the event falls on February 26. Fraser-Nicola MLA Jackie Tegart will be taking part, saying “I will be celebrating National Cupcake Day on Monday, February 26 by selling my very own cupcakes to raise awareness and funds for the SPCA and the great work they do to rescue and protect animals.
“I hope that you will consider supporting me and this important cause by purchasing some cupcakes. All proceeds go directly to the SPCA. Cupcakes are $5 each or $20 for 1/2 dozen, and you can choose from lemon or chocolate. Please order in advance.
“You can pay/donate online and pick up your cupcakes on Monday, February 26 between noon and 3 p.m. at my constituency office in Ashcroft, or you can send me an email to order your cupcakes in advance, and pick up and pay for them at my constituency office on Monday, February 26.”
“We’re encouraging everyone all around the province to get involved,” says Kristina Matisic, National Cupcake Day spokesperson and TV host. “When it comes to baking, cupcakes are pretty foolproof. Trust me, if I can make them, anyone can.
“Over the past few years we’ve seen kids, small businesses, and large companies get involved. I love the cute creations that people come up with and seeing all the donations come in.”
Participants can register for free at www.nationalcupcakeday.ca. The site also includes recipes for cupcakes (regular and vegan) and “pupcakes”: easy to make dog-friendly treats.
Matisic says that people take the cupcakes to the office, or have parties at home. In some communities volunteers take the cupcakes to local businesses, or set up a table and have the cupcakes available in a central location. There is no suggested donation amount, but Matisic says most people donate between $2 and $20.
The fundraising event started in Australia, and is now in its sixth year in Canada. In B.C., three organizations will benefit from the money raised: the BC SPCA, the Langley Animal Protection Society, and the Victoria Humane Society. Last year’s Cupcake Day campaign raised more than $600,000 across the country, and since the campaign’s inception in 2013 some $2.45 million has been raised, with funds going to participating SPCAs and humane societies across the country.
“It’s a very important campaign for us in terms of fundraising for the work that we do, and it’s wonderful to see how much it has grown over the past few years,” says BC SPCA CEO Craig Daniell. “It’s a delicious way to show your compassion for animals.” The BC SPCA will use the funds to find homes for surrendered, rescued, neglected, or abused animals, and provide emergency care to injured animals.
Matisic says that National Cupcake Day is a fun and easy fundraiser. “At the end of the day, it’s not about how well you bake; it’s about helping animals in need. So even if you’re not much of a baker, not to worry. You can always donate to someone who is participating, or directly to the campaign via the website.
“Everyone loves cupcakes, and they’re easy to make. It’s lots of fun; and people find it hard to say no to a cupcake. Some organizations ask you to run or walk for a cause. This is baking for a cause.”
editorial@accjournal.ca
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