2023-10-26 10:05:13
Jean-Marie Mulon can’t believe it: “We are going to end the year with an energy bill that could exceed 130,000 euros,” exclaims the director of the Refuge de l’Arche, located in Saint-Fort, in the gates of Château-Gontier (Mayenne). Given our constant efforts in this area, we had budgeted 60,000 euros…” But prices have exploded.
“The situation is very perilous,” he warns. From now on, feeding our 1000 animals is no longer our primary expense. And yet, with inflation, it is close to 130,000 euros! We are on the bone. »
Every year around thirty additional animals
“The State accredits us as a rescue center for exotic wild animals seized by the authorities or abandoned,” insists Jean-Marie Mulon. All need care, some need heating. There is no question of giving up on our mission. We welcome around thirty additional residents each year. In a few days, two panthers will arrive…”
So, to rectify the situation, the director will launch the operation “One euro per Mayennais for the Refuge de l’Arche” from November 6 (details to come on refuge-arche.org).
“The department has 306,000 inhabitants,” smiles Jean-Marie Mulon. But you can be from Mayen and give more or be from elsewhere and give a euro…” Objective: 50,000 euros. In the meantime, he is thinking about the evolution of the economic model. The operating budget is 1.3 million euros. Revenue comes from entries (55%), grants (26%) and donations, legacies, aid from foundations (14%). Where to find more? Answer: “From corporate sponsorship. With 85,000 visitors per year, we are the leading tourist destination in Mayenne. This notoriety cannot leave major economic players indifferent,” hopes the director.
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