Help Save Us

Posted on Fri March 27, 2020.

And here we are, on 27 March 2020, with hat in hand. The worldwide epidemic, COVID-19, threatens closure of a 35-year-old business. Our animals are our family and we have dedicated our lives to them and their care. With this economic downturn and drastically reduced tourism & income, we are entering a very difficult time and need your help to care for our animals.

And here we are, on 27 March 2020, with hat in hand. The worldwide epidemic, COVID-19, threatens closure of a 35-year-old business. But as you know, we are not just a business, we are a family. Our animals are our family and we have dedicated our lives to them and their care.

As per our President's National Address on 23 March, our country has been placed on lockdown for 21 days from 25 March until 16 April. The next few weeks would have included the National Arts Festival, school holidays and the Easter holidays. A crucial part of the year that funds 3 months of our operations. This totals to a whopping R9 million. Quite simply, it has all been lost… all except hope.

As one of only two facilities in Africa to hold both PAAZA accreditation (Pan Africa Association of Zoo’s and Aquaria) and membership with WAZA (World Association of Zoo’s and Aquariums), we receive no government funding and have always taken enormous pride in being self-sustaining. Our credentials, accolades and conservation successes exceed that of our longevity. However, now we find ourselves alongside the rest of the world, contending with a global crisis… and a crisis of our very own.

The owners have always cared deeply for our staff and community. As one of the largest employers in the region, their decisions and endeavors have always benefitted the local community and tourism industry. Whether or not our facility is open, our commitment to our animals, employees, and community remains. Despite the costs, our animals deserve and are given the best care attainable. Right now, we are in dire need of financial aid we need to raise funds to keep our family cared for.

We thank you for your ongoing support. Every email, phone call, and contribution is deeply appreciated. Should you be able to assist in any way, please reach out to us, or pass this on to anyone that you feel may be able to assist. The only way we will be able to get through, is with the help of our dedicated members and followers. Every cent will help.

Please stay safe. We hold you all in our thoughts during this international crisis and hope that relief is felt world-over, in the very near future.

From our family to yours… with love

CWR Team.

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