A baby barred owl was treated at Skye’s Spirit Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in Harrisville after sustaining multiple injuries when it was hit by a car. The center is asking the public to help with a donation campaign that will wind up in a few weeks. Submitted photo

Skye’s Spirit Wildlife Rehabilitation Center outside Harrisville is asking the public to help them rescue, rehabilitate and return more wild animals in the future.

Maryjane Angelo, owner and executive director of the nonprofit wildlife rehab center, said a private family foundation will match up to $25,000 in donations received by the end of December.

Angelo said the center, which accepts and is currently caring for a number of wild animals that were found injured or sick, runs on donations alone.

She said a miracle is needed to raise the remaining $20,000 to get the maximum matching funds from the foundation, but Angelo believes the animal and nature lovers in Butler County will rise to the challenge.

“Without the help of wonderful people like you and this foundation, we couldn't continue to help the wildlife that needs us every day,” Angelo said. “It is because of you that they get a second chance.”

Skye’s Spirit is celebrating its 25th year of rehabilitating local wildlife.

In addition to owls, rabbits, opossums, porcupines and other woodland creatures, Angelo and her team rehabilitate about 10 bald eagles per year. Most have fed on carrion shot with bullets containing lead pellets.

To donate, log onto petfundr.com, click on “campaigns” and enter “2023 Holiday Match” in the search bar, use $Skye’sWildlife on Cash App, or send a check to Skye’s Spirit Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, 889 Farren Surrena Road, Harrisville, PA 16038.