As she counts down to her 10th birthday on June 16, Jecca Bowman-Edgar is turning a day usually filled with gifts into one centred on kindness, compassion, and giving back.
Instead of presents, the grade 4 pupil from Lilyfontein School has asked friends, family, and the community to donate dog and cat food for Pet Pals, an animal sanctuary caring for hundreds of vulnerable animals.
“We rescued a dog from Pet Pals and I have always wanted to help animals,” she told the Go! on Tuesday.
Her pets, Sprocket, Rugs, and Scrappy, are all rescues.
Her reasoning is simple yet powerful: “If we have food in our stomachs and a warm place to sleep, they should also.”
For Jecca, knowing her birthday will make a difference brings pure happiness to her heart.
“I feel awesome about helping animals,” she said, encouraging other children to follow suit. “All animals deserve a chance in a good family.”
Her mother, Dinks Bowman-Edgar, says this compassion has always been part of who Jecca is.
“Jecca has been asking to volunteer at Pet Pals over weekends and during school holidays. When I asked what she wanted to do for her birthday, she came up with this idea.”
Bowman-Edgar says the response has already been heartening.
“The first drop-off trolley is full, and the support has been wonderful. We’re hoping to collect a substantial amount of food and accessories to help the animals,” Bowman-Edgar said.
According to Tessa Boyd from Pet Pals, initiatives like Jecca’s are vital to the survival of the sanctuary. “It is initiatives like Jecca’s selflessness asking for donations instead of gifts that keep our sanctuary going,” Boyd said.
Pet Pals cares for around 200 dogs and 80 cats, making daily feeding a significant challenge.
“The quantities needed each day are immense. Every donation helps us keep our animals healthy and well fed,” Boyd said.
She says the impact of Jecca’s gesture goes far beyond the donations themselves.
“The ripple effect of such a kind initiative cannot be underestimated.
“At an age where receiving gifts is often so important, we admire this selfless act.”
Adding to the special occasion, Jecca has chosen to spend her birthday at the sanctuary. “Our animals will not only benefit from the donations but will also enjoy plenty of attention on the day. They love the excitement that children bring,” Boyd said.
Community members who would like to support Jecca’s birthday initiative are encouraged to drop off dog or cat food at Just Surfing, Crossways Centre.
Jecca will personally deliver the donations to Pet Pals on June 16, celebrating her birthday alongside the animals she cares so deeply about.
