A new online 50/50 raffle is giving Manitobans a chance to win up to $50,000 while supporting the ongoing work of Steinbach and Area Animal Rescue.
Running from May 1 to July 31, 2026, the fundraiser offers participants the opportunity to win half of all ticket sales, with up to $50,000 going to the lucky winner. The remaining funds will directly support the rescue’s day-to-day operations, which remain both essential and demanding.
“It will likely go to operational costs, like vet bills and other expenses we need covered to keep us going,” says Michelle Neufeld, president of the Rescue.
Cost of care
Neufeld explains that behind every rescue is a process that requires time, resources and careful attention. Whether it’s a cat or a dog, each animal entering the organization’s care begins with a quarantine period and a full veterinary assessment.
“They go immediately into quarantine for about two weeks,” she says. “During that time, they’re fully vet-checked, vaccinated and tested.”
After that, the goal is to place the animal in a foster home while it awaits adoption – a step that is critical, given the organization’s limited space.
“We’re always trying to find fosters,” says Neufeld. “It’s hard to have so many animals in the building.”
The financial reality behind that care is significant. Neufeld estimates that veterinary expenses account for roughly 80 per cent of the organization’s budget, with annual costs exceeding $150,000. Monthly bills can climb as high as $20,000, even with support from local veterinary clinics.
From rescue to home
Despite the challenges, the outcomes often make the work worthwhile. Neufeld points to a recent success story involving a cat that came into care with a missing foot.
Due to complications with how the animal was moving, the Rescue made the decision to proceed with a leg amputation to improve its long-term health. The cat has since been adopted and is thriving.
“You would never know he has three legs,” says Neufeld. “He runs around like no problem.”
Stories like that are balanced with more difficult moments, including cases where animals arrive with injuries too severe to treat. While those decisions are rare, Neufeld says the team focuses on ensuring animals are not left to suffer.
“It’s tough, but at least they’re not out there alone,” she says. “They have care, food and compassion.”
Looking ahead
While the organization has long-term goals – including expanding its facility at 39 Keating Rd to create more indoor space for dogs during winter months – the immediate priority remains sustaining daily operations.
“This fundraiser is really about keeping us afloat,” Neufeld says. She adds that community support extends beyond ticket purchases.
Steinbach and Area Animal Rescue is always looking for volunteers and foster homes, both of which play a key role in helping animals transition from intake to adoption.
The 50/50 raffle offers a straightforward way for Manitobans to contribute. Tickets are available exclusively online, making participation accessible across the province.
“The more money raised, the more animals we can help,” Neufeld points out.
That support translates directly into food, shelter and medical care for animals that need it most and, ultimately, into more stories with happy endings.
Steinbach and Area Animal Rescue is located at 39 Keating Rd in Steinbach and can be reached by calling (204) 807-5559. Information about the Rescue’s services, as well as the 50/50 tickets, can be found on its website.
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