Seattle Artist Auctions Raccoon Art, Raises $12K for Food Bank

A chubby Seattle raccoon named Jimothy just helped feed thousands of neighbors in need, and he didn't even know it.

Jimothy became an internet sensation last week thanks to his distinctive rounded shape, which researchers believe comes from a rare congenital spine condition. Despite his unusual body, the little guy lives a full raccoon life, scurrying around trash cans and exploring Seattle backyards like any other masked bandit.

Seattle artist Ryan Henry Ward saw the viral clips and felt inspired. On July 18, he shared an original painting of Jimothy with his own surrealist twist and made an announcement that caught the community's attention.

"I've decided to give 100% of the money made from this painting to Ballard Food Bank, a place that helped me through some of my hardest times," Ward wrote. He invited locals to bid in his direct messages, with the highest offer by midnight winning the artwork.

The response exploded. Amazon's brand account jumped into the comments, promising to match the winning donation and encouraging other Puget Sound companies to join in. The gesture doubled whatever impact Ward's auction would make.

Within 24 hours, Angela Galdabini won with a bid of $6,543.21. Combined with Amazon's match, the total donation reached over $12,000 for Ballard Food Bank, which has been fighting food insecurity in northwest Seattle since the 1970s.

The Ripple Effect

Ward's creative fundraising approach inspired others to act. Niche Ballard, a local art gallery, announced they're hosting their own fundraiser from August 8 through August 30 with the Seattle Spoon Club. While they joked they probably won't match Ward's total, they recognized an important truth: every bit helps.

The food bank uses a unique grocery store model that lets neighbors in need browse shelves and choose everything from canned goods to fresh produce, hygiene items, and pet food. That dignity matters just as much as the food itself.

Ward posted a receipt showing the donation going through on July 20. "Thanks to an awesome auction winner and to the power of community and in gratitude to Jimothy, Ballard Food Bank has received their donation and the world is a little better."

Sometimes the smallest creatures inspire the biggest hearts.