Furiends Of Manhattan To Honor Betty White Legacy With Fundraiser

MANHATTAN, IL — On what would be Betty White's 100th birthday, Jan. 17, animal welfare organizations around the country are rallying behind White's lifelong crusade to help our animal friends.

Furiends of Manhattan Pet Pantry is joining in by organizing its own #BettyWhiteChallenge fundraiser. It is asking people to donate in the amount of 100 pennies ($1), 100 nickels ($5), 100 dimes ($10) or 100 quarters ($25) in honor of White's 100th birthday.

The nonprofit organization is also asking those who wish to make a donation of pet food or supplies to donate two of the same product so that Furiends of Manhattan can donate one of the items to a local family in need and the other can be donated to a local animal shelter in need, said Furiends of Manhattan Pet Pantry Founder Kristin Marcheschi.

"I've always admired Betty's devotion to helping animals even when it wasn't a trend or the cool thing to do," Marcheschi said. "It was her passion and such a big part of her life. Animals can't speak for themselves so it's up to us to be their voice. What better way to honor such an inspiring woman than to continue helping animals through the #BettyWhiteChallenge."

Those who would like to donate can do so via Furiends of Manhattan Pet Pantry's Venmo account at @FuriendsofManhattan.

For more information, visit the Furiends of Manhattan Pet Pantry Facebook page.