Islip Animal Shelter To Participate In 'Betty White Challenge'

ISLIP, NY — The Town of Islip Animal Shelter and Adopt-A-Pet-Center is inviting residents to participate in the nationwide “Betty White Challenge" this Monday, to honor the late actress' memory.

The virtual challenge will be held on what would have been White's 100th birthday, and asks fans to donate $5 to animal shelters in her name.

The actress and animal activist died on December 31, 2021, six days after suffering a stroke, officials said.

“Throughout her eight-decade career, Betty White not only won the hearts of millions with her endearing charm and wit, but she also gave generously to causes promoting the well-being of all animals, including many endangered species, and helped in the conservation of wildlife habitats," said said Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter. "Her memory will live on through residents’ acts of kindness."

Residents interested in making a donation in White’s name to the shelter can either mail $5 to the or choose from one of the items available on the shelter’s Amazon Wish List, a press release stated. Monetary donations to the shelter will be used to purchase bedding, toys, food and other animal necessities.

According to a press release, the shelter has already received its first donation in White's name, from Breeze Airways, a new airline partner with Town of Islip's Long Island MacArthur Airport.

“It’s safe to say everyone at Breeze is a Betty White fan. I mean, who isn’t?” said Gareth Edmondson-Jones, director of corporate communications. “Breeze will be donating to Islip’s Animal Shelter and Adopt-a-Pet Center, as well as to animal shelters in the 17 other cities we serve. It’s wonderful that Betty’s lifelong service to animals continues even after her passing.”

Residents interested in purchasing an item from the Islip Animal Shelter Amazon Wish List can click here. Donations of $5 can be mailed to the Town of Islip Animal Shelter, 200 South Technology Drive, Central Islip, NY 11722. Residents are asked to indicate “Betty White Challenge” with your donation.

If you are interested in adopting a dog, cat, or small animal from the shelter, click here.

Animal shelters across Long Island are participating in the challenge, including a North Fork facility.