Betty White’s trust is seeking court approval to redirect money intended for the Los Angeles Zoo after the charity named in the actress’s trust arrangements became detached from the zoo.
The trustee has filed a complaint asking for permission to change the wording of the trust, which was last modified in 2020, so donations can instead be made through other organisations now working with the zoo.
White, who was closely involved with the Los Angeles Zoo during her lifetime, stipulated that part of her fortune should be used to provide regular donations to it.
The trust directed the payments through the Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association, a non-profit organisation that worked with the zoo. The complaint says the two organisations have since cut ties.
It also states that the association is involved in litigation with the city, leaving the trustee concerned that the existing arrangement can no longer be used to deliver the money to the zoo.
The trustee argues that White’s intention was clearly for the funds to benefit the Los Angeles Zoo and wants the trust language amended to ensure that happens.
The court has not yet ruled on the request. White died on December 31, 2021, aged 99.
