Nashville Zoo is sending $30,000 to support Australia's efforts to rescue and protect wildlife affected by devastating wildfires. Additionally, the Zoo is committing all funds from a guest donation program called "Round Up for Conservation."
“We’re deeply saddened by what’s happening to the wildlife and habitats in Australia,” said Rick Schwartz, Nashville Zoo President and CEO. “We feel a moral obligation to help the ongoing efforts and encourage others to show their support as well.”
The Zoo will immediately donate $30,000 to the Bushfire Emergency Fund (Zoos Victoria), Wildlife Rescue (WIRES) and Wildlife Warriors (Zoo Australia). Donations made to these organizations will fund emergency veterinary care; researching supplemental feeding for animals who have survived, but whose habitats have been destroyed; protecting and preserving native animals; and supporting rescuers in the field.
The Zoo will also be donating all funds from the 2020 Round Up Program, a program offering guests the option to round up their purchases to the nearest dollar amount to donate to conservation. These Round Up donation boxes are located at every retail and concession location throughout the Zoo and raised almost $30,000 in 2019. A new donation box will be placed in Kangaroo Kickabout.
People looking to contribute to the support of these organizations can make donations at the Zoo or directly on each website listed.