PetSmart Charities Fights Pet Hunger, Donates 70M Pounds of Food Since 2017
PetSmart Charities, in collaboration with Mattel Foundation and other organisations, has been addressing a pressing issue: pet hunger among seniors and low-income families. Since 2017, they have distributed over 4 million meals and 70 million pounds of pet food, with more than 50 million people and 30 million pets benefiting from their initiatives.
PetSmart Charities, recognising the significant number of pets living in homes with food-insecure individuals, has taken proactive steps to ensure these pets receive proper nutrition. They estimate that 30 million pets in the U.S. face pet food insecurity, a situation exacerbated by the pandemic.
One of their key partnerships is with Feeding America, which has seen a surge in demand, with over 50 million people turning to food banks for support. Sixty-three percent of Feeding America food bank representatives report struggling to secure sufficient pet food. To address this, PetSmart Charities provides quarterly deliveries of pet food to Feeding America partner food banks, ensuring a steady supply year-round.
Another crucial partnership is with Meals on Wheels America. More than one in five of their clients reported going without food themselves to feed their pets, highlighting the urgent need for pet food assistance. PetSmart Charities supports these senior pet owners by delivering 15 million pet meals nationwide.
On Pet Hunger Awareness Day (September 30), PetSmart Charities and Feeding America will host four events at partner food banks, allowing pet parents to pick up pet food for their cats and dogs.
PetSmart Charities' commitment to addressing pet hunger has resulted in a significant impact, with nearly 70 million pounds of pet food donated since 2017. Their partnerships with Feeding America and Meals on Wheels America ensure that more pets and their owners receive the support they need. As the need for food assistance continues, PetSmart Charities remains dedicated to providing for the pets of those facing food insecurity.
