Covid-19 pushed many people and businesses into a difficult situation. Wildlife rescue centers across the globe have also been hit hard. Costa Rica was no exception. By closing the borders, help from international volunteers was lost, as well as income from guided tours and our hotel which collectively supports more than half of rescue centers’ financial needs.
On a positive note, local communities are doing their utmost to continue to give support through donations, food supplies and time volunteered. But that is often not enough. Nutrition and care are the main priorities. Investments in equipment, however small they may be, are being shelved. As an incentive for organizations that want to work together to exchange information and experiences to improve the quality of wildlife care, AABLA will support members with small sustainable investments.
What are small sustainable investments? Medical equipment that can be used to help various animals more efficiently or to provide adequate housing or prevention of injuries. A small incubator, a microscope, heating pads, structural environmental enrichment, infrastructure to prevent injuries (monkey bridges). Sustainable means that it can be used in the long term, so no single-use or disposable materials will be funded.
The project budget for a small sustainable investment varies in time and depends on available AABLA resources. All new members will be contacted to discuss their project funding as an incentive for joining.”