Ontario SPCA Cupcake Day Returns: Sweet Fundraiser Supports Shelter Pets
The 14th annual Ontario SPCA Cupcake Day is set to take place this month, providing a delicious opportunity for animal lovers to satisfy their sweet tooth while supporting shelter pets in need. This beloved event, scheduled for February 23, stands as the largest fundraiser of the year for the Ontario SPCA and its network of 13 shelters across the province.
A Flexible and Accessible Charity Initiative
Blair Budgell, events coordinator with the Ontario SPCA, emphasizes that Cupcake Day is designed to be an easy and accessible way for anyone to contribute to animal welfare. Participants can host their bake sales at any time throughout the month, with donations accepted via an online portal until as late as April. "The actual cupcake day is February 23, but people can register and bake cupcakes for the rest of the month or even into March," Budgell explains. "I've seen funds come in as late as the end of April, so it's very flexible."
Home bakers are encouraged to bring their treats to a local shelter on the designated event day or organize their own fundraising events. Creativity is welcomed, with the event's website noting that treats can "be as creative as you want them to be," including pet-approved baked goods.
Local Impact and Community Support
Through the OSPCA's online portal, bakers can choose to support a specific shelter in their community or contribute to the province-wide effort. Donations directed to a particular center remain locally, funding essential services such as medical care, food, and shelter for animals awaiting adoption. "All of that money stays in that community," Budgell highlights. "For example, in Durham Region, funds might go toward surgeries or feeding animals as they wait for their forever homes."
One beneficiary of these efforts is Rex, a black and white cat currently receiving care at the Durham SPCA location after being brought in with a serious injury. Funds raised through Cupcake Day will assist with his ongoing medical treatment and recovery, with adoption available once he is fully healed.
Shelter Events and Additional Ways to Help
Several shelters are hosting in-house Cupcake Day celebrations. The Durham branch in Whitby will hold events on February 21 and 22 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., accepting bake sale donations from February 20 to 22 at 1505 Wentworth Street. Similarly, the Brant County SPCA will host its event on February 23 from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 539 Mohawk Street.
For those who prefer not to bake, shelters also welcome donations to their pet food banks. "The pet food bank is a great way to keep animals in their homes," Budgell notes. "We need food, just like a human food bank, to support animals and keep pets with their people." Visitors to shelter events can bring items such as pet food, litter, or treats.
Last year, the OSPCA facilitated the adoption of over 6,300 animals, underscoring the importance of community support. Budgell adds that Cupcake Day is an excellent family activity, especially during winter months, and a chance for past adopters to visit with their pets. "Everyone loves a cupcake," she says with a smile.
For more information or to register a bake sale, visit the official Cupcake Day website.
