THI’s $50,000 Grant Bolsters ANIMA’s Endeavors to Safeguard Biodiversity and the Environment

Every summer, Greece grapples with devastating fires and scorching heatwaves, leaving animals as the often-overlooked casualties. The Hellenic Initiative (THI) steps in to support The Hellenic Wildlife Care Association – ANIMA by allocating funds raised during last summer’s wildfire campaign towards three critical projects.

THI’s $50,000 grant will facilitate the establishment of a mobile hospital, equipped with a portable Digital X-ray machine, and the recruitment of a veterinarian along with a specialized veterinarian nurse. The grant will also aid in the healing and rehabilitation of 400 tortoises affected by the catastrophic fires and the destructive floods of July and August 2023.

ANIMA, founded in 2005, stands as a non-profit organization dedicated to environmental and nature conservation efforts across Greece. It has emerged as the nation’s premier entity for wildlife care and rehabilitation, offering public education and combatting wildlife crime.

Established in 2012, THI operates as a global non-profit uniting Diaspora Greeks and Philhellenes to invest in Greece, focusing on economic development and crisis relief. To date, THI has injected over $22 million into Greece and stands as the largest Greek Diaspora organization worldwide.

ANIMA annually rehabilitates over 8,500 wild animals, responds to numerous citizen calls, collaborates with various stakeholders, and mobilizes scores of volunteers to address wildlife threats.

Maria Ganoti, founder, and president of ANIMA, underscores the broader impact of their work, asserting, “Environmental issues, including animal diseases, have a profound impact on people’s lives. ANIMA conducts research and gathers data through blood tests, serving as an early warning system for scientists.”

Serving as Greece’s primary wildlife First Aid Station, ANIMA tends to injured, sick, or orphaned wild animals brought in by citizens, providing care, treatment, and eventual release back into the wild. Additionally, it operates PARATIRO, a citizen science initiative aimed at documenting data on deceased or injured wild animals nationwide.

George P. Stamas, THI’s Board President, affirms, “THI’s backing of ANIMA reflects our dedication to preserving our natural world and instilling a heightened sense of stewardship for future generations.”

Andrew N. Liveris, THI’s Board Chairman, remarks, “Our members share a profound affinity for animals and a deep-seated concern for the environment. ANIMA’s work resonates deeply, particularly given the overwhelming support garnered during last summer’s THI online wildfire campaign.”