Amber Morrison, proudly born and raised in Hamilton, says her mother, Jan Morrison, adopted her favourite child – cat – Collin, from the HBSPCA a decade ago and she became a monthly donor soon afterwards.
Her mom passed away in 2023, and Amber became a volunteer in January 2024 in her mom’s honour.
The HBSPCA was the charity of choice during her Celebration of Life.
Amber’s volunteer role is a driver for the Pet Pantry program. She makes deliveries of pet food directly to people who are not able to get their own food due to either mobility or income issues. The HBSPCA recognizes that many families may face difficult financial times and may require assistance in caring for their pets. In addition, they believe that no one should face the difficult decision of having to surrender their pet because they cannot afford the cost of food. The Pet Pantry program exists to support pet owners who are in need of support with pet food and basic supplies.
The HBSPCA also delivers pet food to local foodbanks, so they can further expand their reach of support for people and their pets!
Amber says she delivers food to people of all ages across Hamilton. She usually volunteers on Fridays, helping out at least once a week.
Additionally, Amber has also fills in at the warehouse where she sorts supplies or picks up donations from generous organizations and brings them to the HBSPCA to be distributed.
Amber says she loves her volunteer role and that it’s great to give back as she is a huge animal lover – having chosen a plant-based lifestyle as a teenager. In fact, she says she has ‘only’ three cats at the moment and has always had a special bond with felines. She says it is inspiring to see “that animals are being taken care of by people who care” and that some of the pets are being helped because their owners are having difficulties caring for their pets.
Amber says her mother would "be thrilled" with her involvement in giving of her time and she only wishes she had thought to do it years ago. She said she initially had the impression that volunteering at an SPCA meant working with abused or neglected animals and said she couldn't do that. It would be too hard.
"Instead, there's so much more to it. It's helping so many people and helping them to care for their animals.”
She believes every animal deserves a loving home and the enrichment a pet brings to a home is immeasurable.
Thank you so much for all you do, Amber! We know your mother would be so proud of the contribution you are making to pets and their families.
Whether you're a high school student, a post-secondary scholar, a seasoned professional, newly retired, part of a corporate team, or a community group, the HBSPCA has a range of volunteer opportunities available. The variety of roles, from driving and enrichment to cleaning, administrative tasks, and being an integral part of the client and volunteer teams, ensures that every individual finds their perfect fit.
One example of a satisfying volunteer role is to become a foster volunteer and give our furry friends a temporary place to call home until adoption day! Foster volunteers can enjoy cuddles and playtime all while volunteering.
Volunteering is a wonderful way to use or develop skills, meet new people, and contribute to a cause that matters to you. It is an incredibly rewarding experience. Join the Pack by clicking here!
The HBSPCA is also looking for Community Food Partners whose role is pivotal in distributing and providing essential nutrition to pets in need, ensuring that every animal enjoys the health and happiness they deserve.
By becoming a registered Community Partner, you're not just distributing food; you're spreading hope and fostering a stronger, more resilient community. Your involvement signifies a partnership that celebrates generosity, champions animal welfare, and embodies the spirit of communal support.
Your partnership is not just about assistance; it's about making a statement that in our community, no pet goes unfed, no family is overlooked, and together, we can create a haven of support and care for every animal in need.
By Pearl Wolfe
