Supporting Jill Phipps Rifugio: A Helping Hand for a Worthy Cause
At the Anthony V Martin Foundation, we are always grateful to be part of meaningful projects that bring relief to hardworking charities. In June, we were proud to fund a mini excavator for the Jill Phipps Rescue Centre in Italy, a charity that does incredible work for both animals and activism.
The Jill Phipps Rescue Centre, named after the passionate animal rights activist Jill Phipps, has been on the front lines of animal welfare. Jill tragically lost her life in 1995 at the Coventry Airport while protesting against the live export of calves. Her commitment to the cause continues to inspire animal rights campaigns, and her legacy lives on through the rescue centre that bears her name.
Jill Phipps has since become a symbol of dedication and sacrifice within the animal rights movement, remembered for her unwavering commitment to protecting animals. Her death brought increased public awareness to the issue of live animal exports, and while it didn't end the practice immediately, it did contribute to ongoing campaigns that eventually led to stricter regulations and a decline in live exports from the UK.
Run by Daniela Shehu, the centre not only provides a safe haven for rescued animals but also actively campaigns against the cruelties of animal transport and factory farming. When Daniela reached out to us, they needed the mini excavator to ease the heavy manual labor involved in cleaning out barns and stables. The task had become physically taxing, and the excavator is already making a huge difference in the care of the animals.
In Daniela’s own words, the mini excavator has allowed them to start barn cleaning more efficiently and reduce the physical strain on the team. After facing back problems from years of hard work, this new equipment will help maintain cleaner spaces for the animals without overburdening the rescue workers. The gratitude in their heartfelt message reminded us why supporting these causes is so important.
We are honoured to have been able to contribute to the important work being done at the Jill Phipps Rescue Centre, and we send our best wishes to Daniela and her team as they continue their mission of compassion and activism.