Greens and Beans Deli is going to the dogs in honour of Betty White – and a beloved canine customer.
Chica, a longtime customer at the Sapperton deli, recently passed away at the age of 15. Even when her legs were failing because of arthritis, she’d walk with owner April Fahr down the hill to the deli for her favourite treat.
“The dog used to drag her down here,” said Leona Green, co-owner of Greens and Beans Deli. “She was strong. She was a pit bull. If April tried to walk by the deli – well, that would never happen.”
The Where’s the Beef? fundraiser is taking place at Greens and Beans (143 East Columbia St.) on Sunday, Jan. 16 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
“We will be serving one of her favourite things – roast beef and cream cheese on toast,” Green said. “We are inviting people to bring their dogs and buy this treat by donation.”
Proceeds from the fundraiser will go to the Wild West Animal League in Betty White's name.
White, a renowned actress, comedian and animal lover, passed away on Dec. 31, 2021 at the age of 99. In honour of what would have been her 100th birthday, the #BettyWhiteChallenge asks people to donate $5 to animal welfare organizations around the world on Jan. 17.
Greens and Beans is closed on Sundays, so human food won’t be on the menu at the fundraiser.
“Just the doggy treats. We are going to set up at the back door. We are inviting dogs to come,” Green told the Record. “There are a lot of people who know this dog.”
Chica, 15, was a certified Canine Good Neighbour – a 12-step test that demonstrates a dog can be counted on to present good manners at home, in public places and in the presence of other dogs. The pit bull was also a pet talent contest winner and was also featured when Fahr spoke out against breed-specific legislation.
The Wild West Animal League supports animals in remote and rural areas of B.C.
In December, Green raised funds to buy foods for an animal shelter in Guatemala.
“I got $5,000 worth of dog food when I was there, thanks to the customers,” she said. “People are very generous.”
Follow Theresa McManus on Twitter @TheresaMcManus
Email tmcmanus@newwestrecord.ca
