In 2012, Milan’s Duomo came up with a pretty cool fundraising idea. In order to come up with the necessary funds to support restorations efforts, this massive Gothic cathedral decided to put its 135 gargoyles up for adoption. Donors could pick a gargoyle to contribute to, receiving a little name plaque underneath “their” gargoyle. This article on swide.com pictured and described a few in charming, animal shelter fashion. The Duomo has also put the statues on its numerous spires up for adoption, and its website has an interactive diagram of who has contributed to each spire.
On a related subject, I just read a really good book on a topic related to gargoyles. It was Medieval Mischief: Wit and Humour in the Art of the Middle Ages by Janetta Rebold Benton (an authority on gargoyles). I reviewed it on Goodreads. Click here to purchase on Amazon. (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. However, I only recommend books that I have personally read and enjoyed.)
Ha ha maybe thats what we should do in the UK, would help with church funds 🙂