Celebrating over 40 years of giving

Since its inception in 1982, the Trust has donated over £13 million to more than 1,000 UK-registered animal charities, supporting vital work both domestically and internationally.

Founded by Mrs Jean Sainsbury, the Trust began with a small group of Trustees, one of whom still serves today, offering a unique perspective on its four-decade journey. The first grants were awarded in 1983, a time when identifying charities in need was more challenging due to the lack of digital resources.

In its early years, JSAWT provided funding to veterinary schools, including The Royal Veterinary College (RVC), to enhance their facilities. This long-standing relationship continues, with the Trust regularly donating to the RVC to subsidise veterinary treatment for pet owners facing financial hardship. In honour of Jean Sainsbury, the College’s first-opinion hospital in Camden Town was renamed The Beaumont Sainsbury Hospital.

As JSAWT has evolved, its focus has shifted from supporting larger organisations to prioritising smaller animal welfare and rescue charities, where even modest donations can have a significant impact. Blog posts from previous recipients highlight the transformative effect of these grants on the lives of countless animals and their caregivers.

Today, JSAWT funds a wide range of charities, aiding animals from cats and dogs to horses, wildlife, elephants, and tigers, among many others. Grants support various needs, including operational costs, veterinary expenses, transportation, and construction projects. A generous legacy from Joyce Evelyn Shuman enabled the Trust to expand its support to international conservation efforts and the protection of endangered species. Additional legacies from both known and anonymous donors continue to play a crucial role in sustaining and growing the Trust’s charitable impact.

The Trustees remain dedicated to ensuring that funds are allocated to organisations that align with JSAWT’s mission. They diligently oversee donations to guarantee they are used effectively while honouring Mrs Sainsbury’s original vision. By investing wisely, the Trust secures its ability to support animal charities for many years to come.