A Harsh Reality: Why Are We Prioritizing Animals Over Human Needs?

In an era where access to funding can be a lifeline, it's troubling to observe the disparity between how quickly funds are raised for animal welfare compared to human needs. When scrolling through crowdfunding platforms like Go Get Funding, it becomes glaringly obvious that stories of human suffering often receive little to no support, while campaigns for animals can exceed their goals by leaps and bounds. This uncomfortable reality forces us to question: Why are we, as a society, more inclined to fund animal causes than human welfare?

Real Lives, Real Struggles: The Overlooked

Take the story of Hugh, a young man striving to finish college and secure a future for himself. His Go Get Funding page humbly asks for assistance to complete his education, a need that should resonate deeply with anyone who understands the barriers of economic hardship. Yet, his plea for help languishes, with little to no response. Education is one of the most critical investments in a person’s life, yet Hugh’s call for support echoes in a void.

Or consider the heartbreaking story of a fatherless nephew, a young boy trying to navigate life after losing a parent. The emotional and financial strain on his family is palpable, yet, much like Hugh’s campaign, it remains largely ignored. These are lives that are in desperate need of a helping hand, yet they are met with indifference.

Similarly, a young Caymanian first-time mom has a dream of starting her own business—a vision that could improve not just her life, but also provide for her child and her community. Instead of reaching her goal, she struggles to raise even a fraction of the necessary funds. Entrepreneurship is often lauded as a way out of poverty, but for this mother, the resources simply aren't there.

Even efforts like Reeza, face the same struggle for attention. These are people trying to make an honest living, contribute to society, and build a future, yet they barely raise enough to stay afloat.

Stevenson McField, a multi stroke survivor, has also found himself in a similar situation. His plea for assistance to support his overseas rehabilitation goes unnoticed, despite the urgency of his need. Recovering from a stroke is not just about survival—it’s about regaining independence, dignity, and a chance at a fulfilling life. Yet his story struggles to gain traction, leaving his road to recovery even more daunting.

The Campaign That Soared: Phil's $100K for Animal Welfare

Contrast these human stories with Phil’s campaign, which aimed to raise $4,000 for animal welfare. His fundraiser to support a cause that helps animals quickly surpassed its goal raising a whopping $5205. While the intent behind such initiatives is commendable, it’s hard not to wonder why a campaign for animals reaches overwhelming support while equally urgent human stories go underfunded, if funded at all.

Phil's campaign for C.A.R.E. exceeded expectations, raising more than enough to support the cause. The funds will go towards rehabilitating and caring for animals, a cause that undoubtedly tugs at the heartstrings of many. However, seeing such campaigns thrive while human-focused fundraisers flounder sheds light on a profound disconnects in how we value and prioritize life.

The Psychology Behind Donating

Part of this disparity may be rooted in the psychological response people have to animals versus humans. Animals are often seen as innocent, voiceless, and helpless, which creates an emotional connection that compels many to act. Campaigns for animals often use heart-wrenching imagery and narratives that inspire quick donations. On the other hand, human issues, especially those dealing with complex, multi-layered problems like education, entrepreneurship, or family tragedy, may not stir the same instant response.

Additionally, there is a belief—conscious or not—that human problems are the responsibility of governments, charities, or large organizations. Meanwhile, people feel a personal obligation to step in where animals are concerned, perhaps assuming there are fewer resources available for their care. This creates an uneven playing field where animals receive an abundance of support, while human beings struggle to have their basic needs met.

Time for a Shift in Priorities

There is no denying that animal welfare is important, but we must ask ourselves: why are we so willing to provide for animals while turning a blind eye to our fellow humans? Stories like Hugh’s, the fatherless nephew’s, the young Caymanian mom’s, Reeza’s Enna's Dad all represent real people who are striving for better futures, not just for themselves, but for their communities.

We should strive for a balance where all life—human and animal—is valued and supported. When we allow these human stories to fall through the cracks while animal causes are overfunded, we perpetuate a societal divide where human lives are placed on the back burner.

A Call to Action: Support Humanity Too

It’s time to reevaluate how we engage with crowdfunding and charitable giving. Supporting animal causes is a wonderful endeavor, but we should also ensure that we don't neglect the pressing human issues around us. The stories of struggle, resilience, and hope that fill crowdfunding platforms are not just statistics or sob stories—they are real people, with real lives, waiting for someone to show that they matter.

Let’s start listening more to these human stories, and let’s give with the same compassion we so often reserve for animals. If we can fundraise thousands for animals, we can certainly find it within ourselves to support those struggling to finish their education, care for their children, or build a better life. After all, a truly compassionate society doesn’t choose between lives—it helps them all. Lets change the narrative today!