Move over, March Madness, a different kind of bracket competition is underway this month, and it’s helping animals in need.
It’s called “March Muttness,” a nationwide, bracket-style fundraiser where animal shelters compete to raise the most donations and advance to the next round.
The SPCA of East Texas is one of the participating shelters and has already advanced past the first round after raising more than $700.
Now, the organization is preparing for its next matchup, with just 48 hours to out-raise its opponent and move forward in the competition.
Shelter leaders say the need for support remains constant, with dozens of calls coming in each day and hundreds of animals relying on their care.
“We did 967 adoptions last year. That includes our transport program and our animals adopted locally,” said Emily Heglund, executive director of the SPCA of East Texas. “Serving 1,000-plus animals between intake and adoptions takes a tremendous number of resources, and we’re doing our best to address the needs.”
The organization’s goal is to raise at least $5,000 through the fundraiser to help cover costs such as food, medical care and life-saving treatments.
While the competition is friendly, organizers say the impact is significant for shelters working to meet ongoing demand.
Donations can be made online, and supporters can follow the bracket results in real time as the competition continues.