Tin for the Critter Bin campaign set to run through October

St. Boniface

Southdale

Headingley

Tin for Critter Bin is set to return, and the campaign will run throughout October.

Once again, the initiative is being spearheaded by Sue Zuk-Boyer, her husband Dana Boyer, and their son Reid, with the support of a number of individuals, organizations, and pet stores in the province.

The annual campaign is in honour of Ethan Boyer, a beloved son and brother, who was passionate about animals. Ethan was killed in a collision on the south Perimeter Highway near Brady Road in October 2019. He was 19.

During the campaign, visitors to several pet stores will be invited to make donations of cat and dog food and toys, which historically has constituted the bulk of the pet food that’s been donated in the last several campaigns, although supplies for other animals such as ferrets, parrots, and rabbits have also been donated.

“We’ll take anything, really — all kinds of different foods,” said Boyer, noting his family is always grateful for the kindness and support of all those involved with Tin for the Critter Bin initiative in any capacity.

At press time, a new addition this year was set to be black-and-white campaign T-shirts. All proceeds from the sales will be distributed among local rescues.

“It’s important to remember the whole purpose of Tin for the Critter is Ethan, and his love and passion for animals,” Zuk-Boyer said, noting Ethan continues to be missed by family and friends.

“Every so often we get messages on Facebook or by text. It’s always nice to know that Ethan’s memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him,” Boyer added.

Among the local business owners and campaign supporters who are involved is Tracey Johnson, who owns the Pet Valu stores in St. Boniface (27 Marion St.) and Southdale (35 Lakewood Blvd.).

Details of aspects of this year’s campaign are still being finalized, but there are plans to hold two barbecues, and hopefully an adoption event at the same time, during October. One of these will be on Oct. 4, it has been confirmed.

“We will have the Boyers and family and friends out along with a local Winnipeg shelter … all talking to our customers and passersby on the sidewalk in front discussing Ethan, his love for pets, and how everyone can help support our shelters,” Johnson said.

“If you make, bring, or buy anything to help pets in need you can enter to win one of three huge prizes we will have in store.”

“This event is always a win-win – the Boyers get to help shelters on behalf of Ethan, pets in need get the items they need, and people who have suffered a loss can actually reach out to the Boyers and chat with them,” she added.