BURLINGTON COUNTY, NJ — Beloved actress Betty White passed away on December 31 at the age of 99, and fans around the country, including Bordentown's State Senator, have found a way to honor the animal-loving legend.

The #BettyWhiteChallenge is an online fundraiser taking place on January 17, 2022, on what would have been White's 100th birthday. The #BettyWhiteChallenge encourages people to donate $5 to their local animal shelters and rescues in White's honor.  The late actress was famous for her outspoken advocacy for animals, whether it be for helping them get adopted or for fighting for their welfare. 

State Senator Troy Singleton, who represents Bordentown in the Legislature, is planning on accepting the challenge and is urging his constituents to follow. 

“On January 17, 2022, America’s beloved Golden Girl, Betty White, would have turned 100 years old," Singleton said. "To celebrate her on that day, and as a passionate animal advocate, I will be joining the #BettyWhiteChallenge and donating to my local animal shelter, the Burlington County Animal Shelter."

"Want to join me? Donations can be made here: https://burlingtoncountynj.formstack.com/forms/animal_shelter_donations"

The #BettyWhiteChallenge aims to be a final birthday gift to White, a fitting present for someone who dedicated much of her life to animal advocacy. 

If you are looking to do more than donate, the Burlington County Animal Shelter is currently waiving all adoption fees for adult dogs and cats through the month of January. Typically, the shelter charges a fee of $75 for adult dogs and $45 for cats. Those fees are being waived as a New Year’s gift to the residents and as an incentive to adding a new furry member of the family to start off 2022. 

Appointments are available at the shelter, located at 35 Academy Drive in Westampton, Monday through Friday from noon to 3:30 PM. Residents can also visit on Saturday and Sunday from noon to 3 PM.

Burlington County Animal Shelter dogs and cats can also be viewed online at https://www.co.burlington.nj.us/1446/Available-for-Adoption

Online adoption forms are available with the profiles of each pet. Those interested in meeting a specific dog or cat during their shelter visit can get a head start by completing an adoption application. All animals adopted from the shelter are spayed or neutered and receive up-to-date vaccinations. 

More than 1,182 cats and 411 dogs were adopted from the shelter in 2021 and over 380 others have been placed with rescue groups.

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