The Nanaimo branch of the BC SPCA managed to raise over $17,000 thanks to brave volunteers who locked themselves up with shelter animals until they raised bail money. (BC SPCA Nanaimo on Facebook)

By Jordan Davidson

for the pets

‘It went amazing:’ Nanaimo SPCA surpasses fundraising goal for Lock-in for Love event

Jun 18, 2025 | 1:58 PM

NANAIMO — A big chunk of money was raised this past weekend for furry friends, thanks to volunteers getting into the very cages normally reserved for adoptable animals.

The BC SPCA’s annual Lock-in for Love event took place on Saturday, June 14, with the Nanaimo SPCA managing to blow past their fundraising goal of $14,000 thanks to dedicated volunteers and community members.

Nanaimo centre manager Bonnie Pequin said it was such a wonderful and fun event, with donors really stepping up.

“It went amazing, we had so much fun. For the centre, we raised $17,325 with our matching funds,” Pequin said, as the local branch benefited from around $2,500 from a provincial fund matching campaign, with the rest coming from local contributions.

(BC SPCA Nanaimo Facebook page)

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Province-wide, she said they raised over $280,000, all of which goes right back into their organizations to help animals in need.

Last year, over $15,000 was generated locally, with in excess of $45,000 raised the previous three years combined.

Pequin said community volunteers raised money prior to being locked up for a few hours, with staff members also accepting pledges.

“The Lock-in participants were so great…everybody else did reach their goals. I appreciate all of the community for all they they, they’re always there when we need them.”

According to the BC SPCA, more than 167,000 animals were helped last year at all of their donation-driven centres.

More information on the BC SPCA’s Lock-in for Love event can be found here.

Staff members of the Nanaimo SPCA are once again thanking the community for their generous support. (BC SPCA Nanaimo on Facebook)

(BC SPCA on YouTube)

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by Jordan Davidson

‘It went amazing:’ Nanaimo SPCA surpasses fundraising goal for Lock-in for Love event

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