DALLAS — Animal shelters across Texas and the nation could always use more money, but thanks to the power of social media and the memory of the late Betty White, shelters are getting donations they desperately need.
Jan. 17 marks what would have been the actress and comedian’s 100th birthday. White’s fans were shocked when she unexpectedly passed from natural causes on New Year's Eve. Since then, the beloved Golden Girl’s death has spurred what’s become a national movement called the #BettyWhiteChallenge exploding across social media
The challenge encourages people to donate $5 to any local or national animal shelter, rescue or agency in Betty White’s name before or on her birthday. White was known as an animal lover throughout her life. In 1971 she created and hosted a weekly TV show, “The Pet Set,” where celebrities would drop by with their pets. She also led discussions concerning pet care, ecology and wildlife preservation.
“Betty was always so outspoken on the importance of supporting local animal shelters,” said Sandra Luhring, the executive director of Humane Society of Dallas County (HSDC). “She will always be remembered as an animal rights activist.”
In the first two weeks of January, the HSDC received more than $1,000 in donations in Betty White’s name.
“The Betty White Challenge shows just how amazing and powerful social media can be when it’s used for good,” said Luhring.
Luhring has led the HSDC for the last two decades and said there have been times the shelter has struggled financially.
“We run on practically nothing,” said Luhring. “We survive on donations alone, but everyone that works here has a passion for animals. We’re the little shelter that could.”
Luhring shared a story about a time when she and her staff feared they’d have to shut down because of a lack of donations.
“It got really tight,” she said. “One of the local newspapers came over and did a story on how we we’re struggling, and we started getting so many donations.”
Luhring is reminded of that outpour of generosity with the Betty White Challenge.
“It’s just remarkable that people care that much,” she said.
The $1,000 the HSDC received in Betty White’s name came from four different donors which makes Luhring wonder if the generous donors mistook the recommended $5 donation for $500.
“I’m sure shelters all across Texas are anxiously waiting to see if their communities have Betty White fans,” said Luhring with a laugh.
Luhring said it doesn’t matter what shelter fans donate. The money will go to good use.
“But tell your Spectrum viewers, if they donate to us, it’s going to go to the animals,” said Luhring. “We’re not making big bucks here, and everything we do is for the animals.”
For a behind the scenes version of Lupe’s interview with Luhring, watch the story attached at the top of the article.
If you have an interesting story, or an issue you’d like to see covered, let us know about it. Share your ideas with DFW Human Interest Reporter Lupe Zapata by emailing him at Lupe.Zapata@Charter.com