PetSmart Charities marked a significant milestone on Pet Hunger Awareness Day, which took place on September 24. With 30 million pets living in food-insecure homes, this day raises awareness about the challenges faced by both people and their pets when hunger strikes. As part of the initiative, PetSmart Charities will host special pet food distribution events at select Feeding America partner food banks across the U.S.
Key Highlights:
- 350 Million Pet Meals Delivered: PetSmart Charities has reached its 350 millionth meal delivery through its partnership with Feeding America, Meals on Wheels America and others
- Food Bank Events: On Sept. 24, pet food was distributed alongside human food in Detroit, El Paso, Indianapolis, Minneapolis, New York City, Phoenix, Salt Lake City, San Antonio, San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Tampa Bay. Pet parents facing food insecurity can pick up food for both themselves and their pets.
- Ongoing Efforts: PetSmart Charities has made quarterly pet food deliveries to food banks across the country, resulting in over 66 million pounds of pet food distributed since 2017
The bond between people and pets is especially critical during tough times. Feeding America reports that many families seek food for their pets as they do for themselves, and seniors, in particular, may even share their own meals with their pets. To support older adults, PetSmart Charities partners with Meals on Wheels America, delivering over 13 million pet meals to ensure seniors can keep their pets at home.
PetSmart Charities encourages social service organizations to expand their offerings to include pet services and invites the public to contribute to the cause. Through September 30, donations to PetSmartCharities.org will be matched up to $40,000 by Alphia, North America's largest pet food co-manufacturer.
For more information on how to support this initiative and to learn about future events, visit the PetSmart Charities website.
