AN ANIMAL sanctuary is calling on businesses to donate their food waste to rescued farm animals.
The Farm Animal Rescue Sanctuary (FARS) in Wolverton has taken in some 500 animals from sheep and pigs to turkeys and goats.
Last summer’s heatwave meant the team needed to use the winter hay stock, and the sanctuary has since struggled to keep on top of animal feed costs.
And donations of produce mean animals can be fed well at no extra cost, and food waste – which can produce harmful amounts of methane – can be diverted from landfill.
So far the sanctuary has received a few one-off donations including from a convenience store in Bidford, and the team hopes to set up a regular arrangement with another store in Henley.
But the charity says it is surprising how many supermarkets refuse to donate their food waste.
A spokeswoman told the Observer: “We don’t really understand why. Nobody’s going to eat it and it’s just going to end up in landfill.
“We have had some smaller businesses donate things like bread, fruit and cakes. Pigs just eat anything and they definitely have a bit of a sweet tooth. We get through ridiculous amounts. We can also use it to feed the turkeys, goats and ducks and other wildlife like badgers and foxes.
“At the end of the day it’s helping to feed animals and in this day and age there’s no need to waste food. We all want to do our little bit. If we can cut down on food waste then it’s a good thing.”
The sanctuary, founded 30 years ago, has recently suffered financial difficulties and last year faced closure.
Founder Carole Webb and her volunteers have since hosted a number of fundraising and open day events to generate support for its growing menagerie.
The spokeswoman added: “We have some amazing supporters who really help us out. We have had one volunteer running non-stop for 36 hours, buying scratch cards and helping at a recent cooking event. We are really grateful for our supporters.”
The FARS team is encouraging people to ask their local stores to donate waste produce to the sanctuary.
Email [email protected] to get involved.
And search FARS Warwickshire on gofundme.com to support the sanctuary.
