#BettyWhiteChallenge Pays Off Big for Albany Area Animal Shelter

It was impossible to miss the #BettyWhiteChallenge anywhere on social media this week. In honor of the late actress' memory, millions of dollars were donated to animal shelters all over the country. The Capital Region was no different. Officials at the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society in Menands say they received over $50,000 in donations.

In a statement, CEO of the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, Ashley Jeffrey-Bouck, said the organization was floored by the amount of donations made:

We are absolutely overwhelmed by the amount of support inspired by Betty White’s life’s mission to help animals.

The #BettyWhiteChallenge came about on what would have been the beloved actress' 100th birthday. She was known for her generosity and kindness when it came to adopting and caring for animals in need of homes - especially those in shelters. The movement was nationwide and helped animal rescue organizations all over the country.

Even before the official January 17th date of the challenge, one estimate said it had already raised over a half million dollars.

The Mohawk Hudson Humane Society says over 1,500 people donated to the cause, which is still accepting donations through the shelter's website at www.mohawkhumane.org/betty. They haven't said what they will use the money for specifically, in fact they're still getting over the shock of the overwhelming generosity they have seen from animal lovers all over the Capital District.

Sadly, Betty White passed away on New Year's Eve of 2021, just two and a half weeks shy of what would have been her 100th birthday.

[News 10] [CBS 6]