Who would have thought that a local WhatsApp group would result in a force for animal welfare? Founded by the passionate residents of Kirstenhof, the Aid 4 Animals in Distress (Aid4Aid) charity recently celebrated a remarkable 10th anniversary, standing as a true pillar of compassion in the community!
Kirstenhof, South Africa (16 April 2025) – What began as a local WhatsApp group created by Kirstenhof residents to rescue stray animals in the area has unfolded into something truly remarkable – a full-blown organisation led by a team that strives to ensure animals in need receive the care and support they deserve.
10 years of rescues and animal welfare
Marking an incredible 10-year milestone this past Sunday, Aid 4 Animals in Distress (Aid4Aid) has been an animal rescue lifeline for many animals. To date, Aid4Aid has rescued and rehomed 1,977 puppies, kittens, dogs and cats since its inception and is rapidly approaching the 2,000 mark!
The animal rescue is run by a team of seven, passionate about animal welfare and rescuing animals, and volunteers their time over and above their day jobs.
“Every cent raised during fundraising efforts goes straight back to the animals. Aid4Aid receives no government funding and relies solely on public generosity to support its various fundraising initiatives. Aid4Aid is a foster-based rescue organisation, whereby all animals are in foster care from the moment they are rescued until they are rehomed,” says Leanne Gericke, Vice Chairperson of Aid4Aid.
Carolyn Dudgeon, the founder of Paws-a-While, another animal rescue organisation that collaborates with Aid4Aid and has been hosting the Paws-a-While adoption fairs since 2021.
“It has been a privilege to watch Aid4Aid grow into the powerhouse organisation they are today. Their commitment to animal welfare is truly inspiring and what makes Aid4Aid even more special is their willingness to work with other organisations as a team, they are not in animal welfare for themselves – their only goal is to assist animals in need – a goal they continue to achieve!”
Giving back to other communities
In February and March this year, Aid4Aid joined six other non-profits in the ‘We Step in Together’ campaign. The objective of this campaign was to perform mass sterilisation in Lavender Hill, an area rife with animal overpopulation.
Together with the ‘We Step in Together’ partners, 273 animals were sterilised over the course of two separate days.
“Not only was it unprecedented for so many organisations to work together, but Lavender Hill has never been targeted by mass sterilisation drives. This was evident by the further 70 plus homes which have signed up animals on the second day and await their sterilisation,” says Grant O’Neill, Aid4Aid Chairperson.
Belinda Abraham, spokesperson for the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, says working alongside Aid4Aid during the ‘We Step In Together’ sterilisation drive, where we saw firsthand the dedication, compassion, and sheer love the team has for animals.
“Aid4Aid tackled the demands of the mass pet sterilisation project with efficiency, heart, and a deep understanding of why this work matters – to animals and the sector at large. We are grateful for organisations like this, who are in the trenches with us, doing the hard work where it matters most.”
A cause that’s worth every cent
Running a rescue organisation like Aid4Aid comes at a cost. Their yearly expenditure nearly exceeds R1 million and is mainly attributed to medical and food costs.
“Most people aren’t aware that the adoption fee rarely covers the full cost spent by any animal rescue organisation,” says Blair O’Neill, Aid4Aid Treasurer.
“Aid4Aid is a registered NPO with approved PBO and Section 18A status and can therefore issue tax certificates.”
Local Ward 71 Councillor Carolynne Franklin also praised the organisation’s growth and good work, saying:
“My heart swells with pride whenever I see Aid4Aid mentioned. I can barely believe that a decade has passed since it began – with one or three dedicated residents. From these caring individuals, an animal rescue organisation has grown like no other. Here’s to another ten years of love, commitment, and all-round decency!”
You can follow their incredible work via Instagram and Facebook.
Sources: Supplied
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