Maltese comedian James Ryder has officially closed his fundraiser for Carers for Stray and Abandoned Felines (CSAF) after an extraordinary show of support saw €25,000 raised in just eight hours.Announcing the milestone on social media, Ryder said he was “absolutely speechless”, thanking everyone who contributed to the appeal following the shelter’s ordeal during Malta’s recent power cuts.The fundraiser was launched after CSAF was left without electricity for around 20 hours, placing hundreds of cats, including animals recovering from surgery, at risk during one of the hottest weeks of the year.The original goal was to raise enough money to purchase a 10,000-watt generator to help protect the shelter from future blackouts. According to Ryder, the official quote for the generator came in at €11,426, meaning the fundraising target was comfortably exceeded.Rather than stopping there, the remaining funds will now be used to help smaller animal shelters prepare for future power cuts and extreme heat. Each participating shelter will receive a set budget and will be able to decide whether to install air conditioners or purchase a generator based on its own needs.Any money left over will go towards cooling pads and other heat-related supplies to help protect animals during Malta’s scorching summers. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lovin Malta (@lovinmalta)Ryder confirmed that updates will be shared over the coming days explaining exactly how the money will be distributed.He also thanked everyone who donated, while giving special recognition to veterinary nurse Yaz Mirabella of Mirabella’s Vet Nursing & Pet Sitting Services, who is already contacting animal shelters across Malta to assess what support they need most.“Guys, thank you all. Once again, you have no idea what you have done towards sheltered animals across the country during times like these. Hearts of f***ing gold. The lot of you,” Ryder said.The fundraiser became one of the fastest-growing community appeals in recent weeks, with thousands of people rallying behind the cause to ensure vulnerable animals are better protected when the next power outage strikes.Share this story to celebrate an incredible community effort!•