The BC SPCA is holding its annual Cupcake Day on February 27, and encourages animal lovers to help save the lives of animals around the province by baking cupcakes and then distributing them in their communities in exchange for a donation.
“We’re encouraging everyone all around the province to get involved,” says Kristina Matisic, National Cupcake Day spokesperson. She said participants can register for free at www.nationalcupcakeday.ca, and receive a free cupcake host kit, either through the mail or by downloading some of it online.
“The kits contain posters, balloons, a donation box: all the tools you need except the cupcakes. And we have recipes online, including one for ‘pupcakes’ for dogs. They’re very undemanding, and perfect for novice bakers.”
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 fifth 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 $615,000 across the country.
Matisic says that National Cupcake Day is a fun and easy fundraiser. “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.”