Woolworths axes The Lost Dogs’ Home Christmas appeal after 28 years
SUPERMARKET giant Woolworths has dumped an annual Christmas appeal for the Melbourne Lost Dogs’ Home leaving the charity short by $150,000.
The North Melbourne animal shelter announced the appeal had been axed after 28 years of support by Woolworths.
“The appeal provided us with over $150,000 worth of high quality dog and cat food each and every year,’’ the home said in a statement.
“We extend a heartfelt thank you to Woolworths for its support over the last 28 years, and to Woolworths customers who dug deep to help feed homeless pets, year after year.
“The Home didn’t do anything to cause the arrangement to be cancelled.’’
The Lost Dogs’ Home was asking supporters to still help the charity with food donations. Some supporters were angry at the decision, threatening to boycott the supermarket.
It is believed that Woolworths was changing its sponsorship priorities.
A company spokesman said Woolworths had a proud history of supporting local community charities and initiatives.
“We remain committed to community investment and in the last year alone our contributions have exceeded $30 million,’’ he said.
“In the lead-up to Christmas we are focusing our efforts on supporting OzHarvest - the nation’s leading fresh food rescue operation feeding people in need across Australia.’’
Woolworths announced a $1.2 billion loss in August as the company battled falling food prices, tough competition and the fallout from the Masters hardware chain debacle.
Controversy last year over the shelter’s high kill rate triggered a $1.7 million fall in donations from the public and legacies from wills.