A holiday campaign to benefit the local animal shelter is underway, with a hefty match from an anonymous donor pledged. 

The eighth annual Giving Tree Campaign put on by the Cape Coral Animal Shelter is more than a fundraiser according to staff, as officials say it is a symbol of hope, love, and remembrance. 

Donors are encouraged to dedicate a light on the tree for any reason close to their hearts — whether to help prevent animal cruelty, to honor a cherished furry companion, or in memory of a beloved loved one, furry or otherwise. Every light represents a story of kindness, and every gift — no matter the size — helps transform lives.

“Our Giving Tree helps by turning community generosity into direct, immediate care for homeless pets — everything from food and litter to medical supplies, enrichment items, and comfort essentials,” said CCAS Executive Director Liz McCauley. “Over the years, the campaign has helped the shelter by offsetting critical operating costs, allowing us to redirect financial resources toward lifesaving medical care, spay/neuter services, and emergency treatment.”

McCauley added that over the years, the Giving Tree has become more than a seasonal fundraiser; it’s a tradition that consistently helps the shelter maintain high standards of care, respond to increases in intake during the holidays, and ensure that every animal has what they need while waiting for a forever home. Most importantly, the campaign reminds staff that year after year that the shelter is truly a community effort — and the animals benefit from that generosity every single day, she added.

The CCAS Giving Tree is an online campaign where, when people donate, more “lights” turn on to decorate a drawing of the shelter building. When the shelter’s goal of $25,000, the entire building rendition will be lit!. 

“Of course, monetary donations are the most impactful because we can use the money toward medical expenses and the daily care that we provide,” McCauley said. “However, our Wish Lists on both Amazon and Chewy give our donors an idea of the types of supplies, food, and treats we need daily. And, of course, we are asking for some wrapped gifts for the dogs and cats that the staff and volunteers can give them on Christmas Day. This has become one of my favorite traditions. Wrapped presents can be brought to the shelter during our normal business hours, and we just ask that you note on the outside of the package whether it is for cats or dogs.”

McCauley said donations are more important now than ever for CCAS, because their upcoming expansion means they will be caring for even more animals who truly have nowhere else to go.

“As our community grows, we continue to see more animals affected by housing and financial challenges,” she said. “Many arrive needing medical care, time, and compassion before they are ready for adoption. While the expansion will allow us to help more animals, it will also increase the daily cost of providing the high level of care they deserve. Donor support makes it possible for us to say ‘yes’ to animals in need and ensures that every life in our care is treated with dignity and love. Our shelter exists because of this community, and now more than ever, we are grateful for their continued support.”

An anonymous donor has agreed to match $25,000 raised this year. 

“We are blessed to have a $25,000 match this year again from one of our long-time donors who wishes to remain anonymous,” McCauley said. “She is a former dog walker and volunteer at our shelter and saw firsthand the love and care we provide to all of the animals that find shelter with us. We are truly grateful for her continued support and hope it inspires others to donate to our amazing shelter.”

For more information on the campaign and to donate, visit capecoralanimalshelter.com.

To reach CJ HADDAD, please email cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com