Power NI has donated £1,000 to Bright Eyes Animal Sanctuary which has been used to upgrade their cabin space for volunteers and staff thanks to Brighter Communities funding.

Bright Eyes, operating since 1989, provides a sanctuary for the care, protection, treatment and temporary or permanent accommodation of animals.

Their main purpose is to reduce in unnecessary suffering and distress of companion animals through the provision of a rescue and re-homing service, with Bright Eyes offering permanent shelter to any animal who cannot be rehomed.

In the past five years, Bright Eyes has rehomed over 1,000 cats and dogs from their centre in Ballinamallard.

Bright Eyes rely on the help from volunteers, who provide high quality care for the animals all year round and facilitate finding forever homes.

With the funding from Power NI, Bright Eyes has revamped their existing cabin to create a cosy space for their volunteers.

Victoria Ellingsen, manager of Bright Eyes says that the new cabin will make a real difference to the team.

“The funding has allowed us to make a real difference to the cabin. We’ve repainted, added new flooring, installed heating and given the bathroom a freshen up.

“This cabin space is really important for our volunteers, it gives them space to have a break and relax, as well as socialising with one another. It may also be really useful for the welfare of animals. Some animals we look after requiring round the clock care whilst we nurse them back to health, the new space will allow volunteers to stay through the night to keep the animal comfortable, and to keep an eye to administer any emergency treatment if it’s necessary.

“The space looks great, and we’re very thankful to Power NI for providing the funding to make this happen.”

Ashleigh O’Neill from Power NI added: “We’re delighted to have played a part in creating such a necessary, and useful space for Bright Eyes. The sanctuary provides such an essential service in rehoming and caring for animals across Fermanagh, and Power NI is very proud to help improve the space for their dedicated volunteers. A huge congratulations from Power NI!”

The Brighter Communities funding was first established by Power NI in 2018 and has since helped numerous charities and groups including Special Olympics athletes, stroke recovery groups and wheelchair basketball players.