Yesterday, something extraordinary happened: the community showed up.

With every click, every share, and every single gift — big or small — donors chose compassion on Giving Tuesday. They chose hope. And most importantly, they chose the animals who now have full support from intake through daily care because of this generosity. Contributions totaling $83,600 covered the full cost of caring for 53 animals from the moment they arrived until their adoption into forever homes.

That represents half of the animals currently in the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA’s care, whose medical needs, food, shelter, and enrichment are now fully funded.

Fifty-three lives.
Fifty-three second chances.
Fifty-three futures forever changed.

This Giving Tuesday wasn’t just about donations. It was about showing up when the animals needed it most.

A Matching Gift Unlocked — and Hope Multiplied

Because of the incredible response from donors throughout the day, a full $10,000 matching gift was unlocked, generously provided by an anonymous supporter. This meant every contribution helped twice as many animals receive urgent medical care, warm shelter, nutritious meals, and comfort — especially vital as the cold winter weather settles in.

With more than 130 animals currently in care, and more arriving every day, this support could not have come at a more critical time. Matching gifts don’t just amplify dollars; they amplify belief —belief in what can be achieved together.

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Ten New Monthly Donors Joined the Lifesaving Community

Another milestone was celebrated: ten new monthly donors chose to extend their support beyond Giving Tuesday.

Monthly donors are the steady heartbeat of the shelter. Their commitment allows the HBSPCA to plan long-term, budget for emergencies, and care for animals with more complex or extended medical needs. This decision to give not just once, but every month, ensures animals continue receiving compassionate care all year long. This is hope that doesn’t end with Giving Tuesday — it continues into tomorrow and every day after.

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Stories That Touched Hearts

One of the most meaningful parts of Giving Tuesday was hearing from the community of animal lovers.

Throughout the day, the HBSPCA received phone calls, emails, and messages from donors who shared why they gave. Many told stories about beloved pets who changed their lives. Others spoke of animals they adopted from the shelter who are now cherished family members. Some gave in memory of companions they still miss dearly.

These stories remind the HBSPCA why this work matters — and why support from the community is so deeply impactful. Every animal who comes through the doors has their own story, and every gift helps write a brighter next chapter.

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What Giving Tuesday Support Funds

Generosity ensures that animals receive immediate medical attention upon arrival, proper nutrition, warm and safe housing, behavioral support, daily enrichment, and consistent, compassionate care from dedicated staff.

Fear is replaced with safety.
Hunger with nourishment.
Loneliness with love.

Giving Tuesday wasn’t just about raising money— it was about creating stability and possibility.

Real Lives Changed: Milo and Baby

Among the animals whose care is now fully funded are Milo and Baby, two very different stories, each forever changed by donor generosity.

Milo —  Healing Through Compassion

Milo arrived cold, frightened, and in need of urgent medical care. Thanks to donor support, he received surgery, aftercare, and the love he needed to transform into the playful cat he always deserved to be. Today, Milo is a happy cat thriving in his forever home, a testament to the power of compassion.

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Baby —  Learning to Trust Again

Baby came shy and unsure, carrying fears that only patience and kindness could ease. With support, she received nutritious food, warm bedding, and gentle daily care. Now, Baby is happily settled with a loving family, a happy canine companion who can trust and enjoy life again.

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Milo and Baby are just two examples of the many lives touched by Giving Tuesday. Every gift helps other animals like them find healing, care, and the loving homes they deserve.

Because of this generosity, 53 animals now have what they need to heal and grow. Their futures are brighter because kindness was chosen.

With Endless Gratitude

All of us — two and four-legged alike — at the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA are deeply grateful for the compassion shown on Giving Tuesday.

This kindness brought animals closer to the loving homes waiting for them. It was the reason hope happened.

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Even if you weren’t able to give on Giving Tuesday, you can still make a meaningful difference before December 31. Your year-end gift will help ensure that frightened kittens, senior dogs, and every animal in between receives the care, protection, and compassion they deserve.

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