Getting ready!

Last week our MAP team virtually met with Kathy and our partner to ensure all is in order for our upcoming assignment. This was also the opportunity for us to receive information and insights in support of our goals. I thought I'd share some high level information to set-up the context.

La Croix Bleue (LCB) aka Her Blauwe Kruis (HBK) in Flemisch is currently presided by Mr. Guy Adant who has been involved for over two decades. The organization manages 4 shelters in Forest (Brussels), Floriffoux (Namur), Lommel (Limburg) and Wommelgen (Antwerpen). Together the shelters cared after a large population of 4 549 animals in 2021 of which 1 064 dogs and 3 011 cats. This is an increase of 52% in comparison to the previous year (2020). Animals up for adoption usually find a new home before a year.

LCB today is assisted by 140 volunteers (part time) to look after the animals. The cost of running the organization is almost exclusively covered up by monetary donations / gifts in will from citizen or supported by in-kind donations from partners. Mars Belgium is a long standing partner for more than 20 years notably donating in average 285 000 pet meals a year and offering time from willing Associates for volunteering (#proudlyMars ^^).

And this already emphasizes to me why our assignment is important. Greater awareness & presence in the digital world about the purpose and actions of La Croix Bleue, and of the pets residing in shelters waiting for a loving home will certainly drive up donations and adoptions. And a better world for pets.

Alright, time to go and make a difference!

Bonus: if you wonder what is the experience like in a shelter and what is like to be a volunteer at "La Croix Bleue" I found this TV documentary (in French) from 2018 about the shelter in Floriffoux.

être bénévole à la Croix-Bleue de Floriffoux