‘What started as a desperate call for help turned into something extraordinary’

Ralphy’s Retreat was overwhelmed by the community’s support after issuing a plea for help after a major snowstorm.

After being buried under relentless snowfall, Ralphy’s Retreat Animal Sanctuary in Wyebridge put out a desperate plea for help - and the community answered.

Staff at the sanctuary, which provides a home for rescued farm animals, was overwhelmed by the heavy drifts, making it nearly impossible for its pigs, goats, horses, cows, sheep, and alpacas, to move freely. With many of the animals elderly or disabled, the conditions became even more challenging.

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On Friday, staff put out a call for help, asking the community to attend a ‘Shovel Party’ the following day. Ralphy’s Retreat invited volunteers to bring shovels and snowblowers to help clear pens and pathways, and the turnout exceeded expectations, with people coming together to battle the deep snow.

Roughly 120 people showed up and worked tirelessly to clear snow, shovel roofs and help the animals.

“We are beyond grateful to everyone who came out on Saturday for our Shovel Party,” the sanctuary posted to social media. “Your kindness, strength, and laughter turned a tough job into an unforgettable day. We couldn’t do this without our incredible community. Thank you for showing up for us and for the animals who call Ralphy’s home.”

But winter wasn’t quite done, and soon another heavy snowfall followed, once again blocking the paths that had just been cleared.

Determined to keep its four-legged residents safe, the animal retreat at 39 Darby Road held a second community dig-out on Monday, and once again, volunteers braved the cold to help clear the grounds.

“What started as a desperate call for help turned into something extraordinary—strangers becoming family, bonded by compassion and a shared love for the souls who call Ralphy’s Retreat home. It’s in the warmth of your laughter, the determination in your work, and the generosity of your spirit that we are reminded: love is action, and community is everything," Ralphy’s posted on Monday evening.

Ralphy’s Retreat says since the story aired on Friday over $11,000 was raised in donations “an unbelievable show of generosity.”

With the immediate crisis addressed, winter remains a challenge for the sanctuary. Increased feed and bedding costs, along with ongoing snow removal, continue to stretch resources.

For those hoping to help, the sanctuary is running a Hay & Straw Fundraiser to help keep its residents warm and well-fed over the chilly months.