Maria Du Toit never planned to become responsible for five dogs.

In early 2023, a stray pregnant dog followed her home. Without hesitation, Maria gave her food and a safe place to stay. Shortly after, the dog gave birth in Maria’s small yard. What started as a simple act of kindness quietly turned into a long-term responsibility she has car-ried ever since.

Maria did everything she could to find support. She created posters, reached out to local asso-ciations, and contacted the Câmara Municipal da Calheta. The municipality stepped in to chip and vaccinate the dogs to help them get adopted. But only one found a home. The remaining four are still with her.

Over time, the situation has become increasingly difficult — and now it has reached a break-ing point.

About seven months ago, Maria’s husband suffered a serious work accident. Since January 2025, he has been unable to work. He has undergone surgery and continues treatment at the hospital. His mobility is limited, and he lives with constant pain. Without transport and with no ability for him to drive, daily life has become a challenge on every level.

Maria reached out again for help. While promises were made to support with dog food, little assistance has arrived. But the call reached me and I am here to support her.

Right now, she is left alone to carry everything — her husband’s care, their financial strain, and the responsibility for four dogs who depend entirely on her.

She has already been forced to reduce their food. They are no longer being properly fed.

This fundraiser is not about excess. It’s about covering the next three months — securing enough food so these animals don’t go hungry while Maria navigates an already overwhelm-ing situation.

One 20kg bag of dog food feeds them for approximately a week and a half. Consistent support over the next three months would stabilize the situation and give Maria breathing space to find a longer-term solution.

She is not asking for luxury. She is asking for relief.

Maria stepped in when no one else did. Now she needs people to step in for her.

Any contribution — whether small or significant — directly translates into food for these dogs and immediate pressure lifted from her shoulders.

If you’ve ever believed that doing the right thing should not lead to suffering, this is one of those moments to act.

Thank you for your support.