To celebrate the millennium, the Durban and Coast SPCA has produced its first-ever calendar. “It is a unique production, using young people’s art to depict 12 important animal care messages,” says SPCA special projects officer Marilyn Joubert. “We felt the link between animals and children – the two innocent victims of abuse – would be perfect partners in this project.”

The printing of the calendar has been sponsored by 13 corporate companies. A total of 21 schools in Durban (from primary to high schools) took part and judging was carried out by the sponsors and various school art teachers.

Apart from its education message, the calendar is a critical fundraiser. At present it costs the SPCA R13,000 per month for medicine, a cost that cannot be sustained. “If all 5,000 copies are sold at R35 (inc. VAT),” adds Marilyn, “we will almost cover the medicine budget for next year of R156,000.”

Look out for the SPCA children’s art calendar at various outlets or contact the SPCA direct on 261-2336 for further details. Anyone who can assist in selling these charming and thought-provoking calendars should contact the same number.