By Danielle Kutchel
Preheat that oven and get out the mixing bowl, it’s time to get baking for the RSPCA!
Australia’s sweetest fundraiser, Cupcake Day, has returned for another year.
And as we bunker down inside for a few more weeks of lockdown, now is the perfect time to get creative in the kitchen.
Cupcake Day, which raises funds for the RSPCA to help the organisation in its mission to fight animal cruelty, was officially held on Monday 16 August – however organisers say participants can host their celebration at any time, including virtually!
Jo Anne Wriede, events and community fundraising manager at the RSPCA, said the organisation is hoping to raise more than $100,000 this year for animal welfare.
And she said that despite Covid restrictions, there are still plenty of ways to bake and raise funds, including Zoom bake-offs with friends and family or setting baking challenges with colleagues.
This year the RSPCA is encouraging people to broaden their baking horizons with savoury food or cultural dishes rather than just sweet treats.
The Cupcake Day website features a number of recipes catering to different dietary requirements – and even pets!
Everyone who registers for RSPCA’s Cupcake Day receives online access to all the resources needed to host a virtual baking event.
They will also get their own personalised fundraising page that they can share via social media and email.
Ms Wriede said all funds raised would go directly towards the RSPCA’s community programs to help empower people with knowledge about animal care.
“We’re more than 90 per cent funded by the community, and we really appreciate any support we can get,” she said.
Alexis Esser, foster care network coordinator at RSPCA in Pearcedale, sees the difference the funds raised make each year.
“Every animal that comes in costs us money – housing them, feeding them, paying staff and vet bills, all sorts of treatments,” she explained.
“Any money we can fundraise goes towards helping these animals to their new homes.
“It doesn’t matter how small the donation is, it certainly makes a big difference.”
She encouraged people to get in the kitchen and start fundraising.
“While so many of us are in lockdown at the moment, baking and raising money to help fight animal cruelty is a great way to … have some fun and at the same time help RSPCA continue our important work.”
To register and find cooking tips, drool-worthy recipes, along with helpful hints and online competitions, visit www.rspcacupcakeday.com.au
