UCT Chemistry with a Cause: Winter Charity Drive 2025
The Department of Chemistry organised a Winter Charity Drive as part of the departmental community outreach initiative ‘Chemistry with a Cause’. This was in support of the Cape of Good Hope SPCA which is an animal welfare organisation based in Grassy Park, Cape Town.
This organisation goes above and beyond the call of duty with the work they do in caring for animals of all kinds, with winter being a particularly vulnerable time for them. At any time, they have ~400 animals in their care where they provide a variety of services from temporary homes, veterinary care, rehoming pets and prevention services. They are also actively involved in helping distressed wildlife and are at the forefront in efforts against animal cruelty.
This initiative was active throughout June where staff and students were invited to participate by donating various essential items. The response was truly remarkable and heartfelt thanks goes to those within the department and other good Samaritans who contributed towards this meaningful cause. It is through their kindness, compassion and generosity, we were able to collect far more than anticipated. Altogether we collected a range of towels, blankets, reams of newspaper, detergent, 15 Kg cat litter and ~100 Kg of assorted pet food.
The donated items were carefully packaged and delivered to the SPCA on 2 July 2025 by a group of staff members. Ms Wendy Loots, Supporter Relations at the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, received this donation with immense gratitude on behalf of the organisation. Ms Loots kindly took the group on an informative and eye-opening tour of their facilities. This tour started at the charity shop then proceeded to the cat and dog facilities within the Adoption Centre. This was followed by visits to the animal clinic, hospital, farmyard and the dog play park. This opportunity allowed the staff to engage with what happens behind-the-scenes and have a better appreciation for where our donations will have the biggest impact. Overall, this organisation has incredible people who form part of a dynamic and diverse team who work tirelessly to ensure that all animals receive the best care possible. They rely heavily on donations in order to fulfil their roles with various ways to get involved which range from volunteering your time to making donations, for more information please visit their website (https://capespca.co.za/).
A special thank you to Dr Roxanne Mohunlal for leading this initiative and to Mrs Joey Paulse and Mr Jonathan McKarthy for their assistance with collecting and packing the donated items. The department would also like to acknowledge Mr Abduraghman Gamieldien, Mrs Joey Paulse, Dr Samantha Douman and Dr Roxanne Mohunlal for dedicating time to engage with and personally deliver these items to the intended organisation. Together, the Department of Chemistry have successfully connected with the community in a different way and made a meaningful contribution.
