The Portage Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) is bringing back a community favourite this weekend with a classic film, a parking lot full of supporters, and a night under the stars.
On Saturday, July 12, PAWS will host a drive-in movie fundraiser at Prairie City Cinema, featuring the 1993 family comedy Mrs. Doubtfire. The event is set to support the care of animals at the local shelter and in foster homes.
Gates open at 9:30 p.m., with the movie starting around 10:15 p.m. once it’s dark enough. Admission is $30 per vehicle, and there will be concession, access to bathrooms, and 50/50 raffle tickets for sale.
Returning to a proven format
This isn’t the first time PAWS has hosted a movie night at the theatre.
“Prairie Cinema during COVID set up this massive screen in their parking lot, so they've been doing drive-in movie nights for probably about three years now, maybe four,” says Christina Nesbitt, fundraising coordinator with PAWS.
Attendees can expect an easy and fun setup.
“You pull in the parking lot and one of the family members of the owners of the theatre will actually guide you into spots,” she continues. “You get set up and get your snacks, and then you get cozy in your car and ready to watch the movie.”
While it’s Nesbitt’s first time organizing the event, PAWS has hosted similar fundraisers in the past.
“I do believe it was two years ago before my time on the board,” she remarks. “I do believe it was the original Jurassic Park movie.”
Funds support food, vet care, and supplies
Proceeds from the drive-in will help cover everyday costs for PAWS, including food, veterinary bills, and supplies for both the cats housed at the shelter and the dogs living in foster care.
“It goes to the care of our animals,” says Nesbitt. “It goes to our vets, food; just general care for the animals that are in our care, including our foster dogs and all the cats in the shelter.”
Nesbitt mentions the shelter is currently caring for 14 cats, with another five dogs in foster homes.
“This summer it's a little bit slower for adoptions, but we are always one call away from you finding your new furry friend,” she adds.
50/50 raffle draws on July 18
In addition to Saturday’s movie, PAWS is also running a summer 50/50 raffle with a jackpot that could reach $5,000. The draw is set for Friday, July 18, and tickets are $10 each.
Raffle tickets will be available at the cinema on Saturday from 9:30 p.m. until showtime, as well as at Sobeys this weekend. People can also reach out through Facebook or Instagram to get tickets directly.
“We're over half sold out,” Nesbitt remarks.
Anyone interested in supporting PAWS can find more details on their social media pages.
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