Fans of the late icon Betty White, who would have turned 100 on Monday, wasted little time honoring the star after she died on New Year's Eve.
"That next day, after the holidays, we had someone come into our office with a $100 check who wanted to make the donation in Betty White's memory and in her honor," said Azure Davis, Founding Executive Director of Ruff Start Rescue in Princeton, Minnesota.
In the days after White's death, the "Betty White Challenge" went viral, encouraging people to donate $5 to a local animal shelter on Jan. 17 to honor her 100th birthday.
"I think she was just such a big animal welfare advocate and there's so many people who feel they have this connection with her," Davis said. "We're hoping this isn't just a one-time thing. Maybe every year, in memory of Betty White's birthday, they'll donate in her memory and create lifetime donors."
Davis told WCCO Radio's Vineeta Sawkar on Monday morning that the donations go a long way.
"Veterinarian expenses are by far the biggest expense we have," she said. "We take in dogs, cats, and some critters at the rescue. Every animal before they are adopted are fully vetted before adoption. We pay for all of that."
Davis says the adoption fee often helps offset the costs, but other times there are other issues.
"There are always situations with animals who might have worms or and injury. These donations help us say 'yes' and take on some of those tougher cases."
Davis adds that in addition to monetary donations, they are also seeking individuals willing to volunteer, foster, or even adopt an animal looking for their forever home.
"We have a lot of opportunities available both remote and on-site," Davis said. "We don't have a shelter-type setting because we are foster-based. We're always looking for help at our Princeton office."