The legacy of a Richmond animal lover, business owner and philanthropist lives on with donations to two local animal rescue organizations made last week.
In December, volunteers and staff at RAPS were saddened to learn of the sudden passing of Marilyn Bitcon, owner and operator of Meow & Bark Avenue, a pet food supply store in Steveston, said Mandy Lichtmann, volunteer and outreach coordinator of RAPS.
“She was a super kind-hearted person and animal lover who was very knowledgeable about pets and health matters. She was amazing with our organization,” said Lichtmann, who had known Bitcon for more than ten years since she joined RAPS.
But Lichtmann noted that Bitcon wasn’t just known for her quality products but also her generous support and dedication to various charities throughout the years.
In honour of that generosity, last Friday Bitcon’s friends contacted RAPS and BCSPCA, saying they would like to donate the pet food in the store on behalf of Bitcon to both organizations.
Litchmann and colleagues, arrived at the store later that day and left with trucks and other vehicles piled high with food.
“The kindness Marilyn demonstrated in life lives on through this gift, which will help RAPS continue our shared legacy of saving and improving the lives of animals,” RAPS later posted on their Facebook page.
“Again, we remember Marilyn with such fondness and gratitude and share with the entire community the sadness of her absence.”
This donation will tremendously benefit hundreds of cats and kittens at RAPS’ sanctuaries and the dog food will be provided to people in need at Vancouver’s downtown eastside, said Litchmann.
Meanwhile, BC SPCA’s Richmond Education and Adoption Centre also received “a whole UHaul of dog food” from Meow & Bark Avenue.
Lorie Chortyk, general manager of communications at BC SPCA, said this donation would benefit other shelters and more pet guardians since many families across the province have been financially impacted by COVID-19.
“The BC SPCA is so grateful for this generous donation, which will make such a difference for animals in need,” said Chortyk.
