Great concern for the Star of Kindness in Quaregnon. The shelter is in a more than worrying financial state. Philippe Lengelle, the manager of the shelter, announces: “Without a miracle, we will close at the end of the year. »
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Too high costs
“Economically, it’s a disaster. We experienced a wave of mass layoffs. But we have very few adoptions. The animals stagnate in our homes. We have little money coming in, but a lot going out: wages, water, energy… On average, a dog costs us €12.5 per person. day and we have 80… We still have to add vet costs that are constantly increasing. It’s a lot of money,” laments the manager.
The Kindness Star accepts donations. But it is barely enough to cover operating costs. “There are also unexpected expenses. We organized open days which allowed us to raise €1,300. On Monday we had a dog that had a stomach ache. He died despite the operation. But it still cost us €1,600…” So much so that the shelter is struggling to pay certain bills. “We live with what is left in our means to function for a few months. »
However, the refuge could benefit from a breath of fresh air. “We have legacies, people who have left us legacies. The money comes in, but it takes time. We risk closing before we have it. We could have an oxygen bubble, but…”
Concern for animals
“All shelters in Wallonia are full. What are we going to do with the animals? », worries Philippe Lengelle of course. “It is a disaster. Nobody wants to adopt a dog anymore. »
What solution is left at the shelter? “If we could have donations, it would be impeccable. In terms of inheritance, if it could go faster with the notaries…” If you would like to donate to Etoile de Bonté, the contact information is available on their Facebook page.
