Bodmin-based animal charity The Hugs Foundation has come up with a novel way of compensating for its temporary closure.
Laura Dennis, Charity Fundraising Coordinator, said: ‘We are absolutely heartbroken having to close temporarily, which has led to temporary job losses, but we have no other choice we have to ensure the charity can continue to care for its animals and still be here for the future.
‘We are extremely concerned about the impact this will have. For our children and vulnerable adults, it will be devastating as many face extremely difficult family situations already and have complex mental health needs.’
In a bid to minimise the distress Hugs is launching ‘Hugs TV’ via a Facebook Live project called ‘A Daily Hug.’
This involves one or two posts a day at approximately 9am and 2pm (depending on what’s happening on the yard) that will go live to keep supporters engaged and give them something to do and look forward to whilst they are stuck at home.
One post will be with the rescue animals (including their new foal, Primrose), continuing to tell their stories, show how they are all being cared for and set challenges and fun questions to give people something to do.
The second post will be either a challenge or activity that individuals and families could do in their own homes and gardens.
Hugs hopes that this will help keep people positive and give them some things to do that could perhaps also be helpful with the lack of school and improve social inclusion whilst adhering to the social distancing restrictions. Keep an eye on their Facebook page, share with your friends and family, get involved and join in the fun!