It is with heavy hearts that we share the incredibly sad news that our dear friend and long-standing volunteer, and dedicated fosterer Jackie Cain, passed away on Thursday, 3rd April 2025. Jackie has been a part of the Rain Rescue family for many years, and her loss is deeply felt by us all. She was a kind, selfless, and quietly strong woman who gave so much of herself to the animals in our care. Over the years, she opened her heart and home to countless cats — particularly those who found cattery life overwhelming — offering them a safe place to rest, heal, and feel loved.

She had a special way with the shy and struggling cats, the mums with litters, and those who needed just a little more time and patience. Jackie gave them that, and so much more. Beyond fostering, she was also a dedicated volunteer at the centre, always ready to lend a hand, support the team, and do whatever was needed — without fuss or fanfare, just with love.

Her compassion and unwavering commitment have left a lasting mark on our charity. She gave so much, and we are endlessly grateful for every moment she spent with us, and every life she helped transform. Her memory will live on in the many animals she helped, the friendships she made, and the lasting impact she had on all of us. We take comfort knowing that her legacy of love and care will continue to inspire and guide us as we carry on the work she was so passionate about. She will be so dearly missed by everyone here — her fellow volunteers, fosterers, staff, and the animals whose lives she changed forever.

We offer our heartfelt condolences to everyone who knew and loved Jackie, and we will be forever grateful for all she has done for us,

CEO Trisha Spargo,  Board of Trustees, and all the staff and volunteers at Rain Rescue

Last December, a litter of six tiny Huntaway cross puppies arrived at Rain Rescue in desperate need of help. They were weak, lethargic, and heartbreakingly frail. These weren’t the bouncy, excitable puppies you’d expect to see. Their little bodies were thin, their ribs clearly visible beneath delicate, fragile skin. Their bellies were swollen from a severe worm infestation, a sign of the difficult start they had endured before finding their way to us.

Despite their condition, we saw hope in their eyes. We named them Elphaba, Glinda, Nessa, Oz, Munchkin, and Fiyero, inspired by Wicked, the movie lighting up cinemas at the time. But there was nothing magical about the way they arrived in our care. These tiny souls had been through so much already, and their fight for survival had only just begun.

These puppies should have been discovering the world with endless curiosity, their tails wagging, their paws clumsily exploring everything in sight. Instead, they barely had the energy to lift their heads. When they first arrived, we made sure they were seen by our vet immediately. We offered round-the-clock support and, most importantly, gave them the warmth and love they had been missing.

 

Slowly but surely, they regained their strength. The sparkle returned to their eyes, and they became the playful, curious puppies they were always meant to be. Once they were healthy and strong, we set out to find their forever homes. Puppies are often adopted quickly, and we were right, five of them had found their new families without hesitation. But sweet Nessa… she had no interest, no applications, and no home to call her own. Day after day, one by one, each of her siblings set off to their new homes. While we were overjoyed for them, we just couldn’t understand why Nessa was still here. It broke our hearts to see her waiting, with no one yet to choose her.

One week passed. Then two. As the days went by, we couldn’t help but worry for her. Puppies like Nessa should be learning, growing, and forming bonds with their families during these crucial early months. While she waited, we made sure she felt all the love in the world—our team showered her with cuddles, belly rubs, and endless care. Like every dog here at Rain Rescue, we treated Nessa as if she were our own, but we knew deep down that what she truly longed for was a family to call her own. We poured our hearts into finding her the perfect home, sharing videos of her playful, clever nature and posting heartfelt appeals online. Still, no applications came in—until one day, everything changed. A wonderful family reached out. Their application was full of love, hope, and excitement about giving Nessa the life she deserved. When they met her at the centre, it was love at first sight.

Watching Nessa walk away with her new family and her tail wagging, was a moment of pure joy.

This is why we do what we do. It’s not just about rescuing animals—it’s about giving them a chance at a better life. Animals like Nessa, who have been through so much, deserve to experience love, warmth, and a place to call home. We watch them struggle, wait, and hope, knowing that each day they spend with us is one step closer to their happy ending.  Every rescue, every story, every heart touched by the kindness of others is why we keep doing this work. We are here to ensure that every animal, no matter how long it takes, gets their chance at happiness.

We Have Some Exciting News to Share!

As a charity that relies on donations, we’re always looking for new and exciting ways to raise funds and support our vital rescue work. So, what better way to expand our fundraising offerings than by introducing the ultimate thrill-seeker’s challenge? Skydives!

Why Skydives Are Great for Charities

Skydiving is not just an adventure; it’s a fundraising phenomenon! Here’s why:

• Thrills and excitement: Skydiving attracts those who love adrenaline, making it a unique and exciting way to fundraise. It’s the kind of challenge that motivates people to push their limits for a cause they believe in – like Rain Rescue!

• Unforgettable experiences: Participants will take part in an experience they’ll remember forever. The sense of achievement after freefalling from 15,000 ft is immense, and knowing they’ve raised money for rescue animals makes it even more meaningful.

• Community spirit: Skydiving events bring people together for an adrenaline-filled day of fun, fundraising, and personal triumph. It’s a chance to bond with other supporters and share an amazing experience, all while raising funds to help animals in need.

• A great way to raise big funds: The minimum sponsorship target of £500 helps us reach our goals. A skydive isn’t just about the leap – it’s about making a huge impact on the lives of dogs and cats who’ve faced the hardest of times.

So, with this exciting addition to our fundraising portfolio, we’re giving you the chance to make a real difference and take the ultimate leap for our rescue animals.

The Challenge: Jump from 15,000 feet!

Feel the rush of 125mph freefall followed by a peaceful 5-minute canopy ride with breathtaking views of North Lincolnshire. Imagine the thrill of diving through the air while knowing you’re helping to rescue cats and dogs in desperate need.

To register your interest in our skydive challenge, click here.

2025 dates:

• Saturday 30th August

•  Friday 19th September

 

Find out more about our skydives here 

Challenge yourself. Champion their cause. Change their future.