Ann Arbor, MI (October 2, 2024) — Thanksgiving started early at the Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV), with a 26,000 lb pet food donation from PetSmart Charities and a partnership with Food Gatherers. This generous contribution marks a significant step forward in ensuring local pets stay healthy and in their homes during challenging times.
“The demand for our Bountiful Bowls pet food pantry has skyrocketed over the past few years, and this greatly helps us in meeting the growing needs of our community,” said Cameron Greig, HSHV’s Community Cat and Bountiful Bowls Coordinator.
In 2023, HSHV handed out more than 64,000 lbs. of pet food to community families in need—a 56% increase since 2020.
In addition to distributing food to pets whose people come to their shelter, HSHV also partners with local nonprofits, such as Ypsilanti Meals on Wheels, for help with distribution.
Food Gatherers, though typically not involved in distributing pet food, has generously offered warehouse space to store the donation at no cost.
“Food Gatherers’ support has been crucial in making the needed expansion of our Bountiful Bowls pet pantry a reality,” says Tanya Hilgendorf, HSHV’s CEO.
“We are happy to help ensure this food reaches families who need it, and it’s great to see community organizations coming together to make a difference,” said John Reed, Director of Warehouse Operations at Food Gatherers.
The large-scale dry donation from PetSmart Charities, in partnership with Feeding America is expected to sustain HSHV’s pet food pantry for 6 months with dry dog and cat food. HSHV continues to welcome additional contributions, gladly accepting canned and dry pet food in their original containers (partially used bags can be taped shut) within 2 months of the expiration date, as well as cat litter. Donations can be dropped off 7 days/week, and the Bountiful Bowls’ Amazon wish list can be found at https://tinyurl.com/yzw4rwzb or www.hshv.org/wishlist.
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About The Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV):
The Humane Society of Huron Valley, located in Ann Arbor, is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and relies solely on the generosity of our supporters to provide critical community programs and services. HSHV is an award-winning organization, recognized for our best practices and highest animal “save-rate” among all similar shelters in Michigan. Charity Navigator, the nation’s top charity evaluator, awarded HSHV a 4-star ranking, the highest possible. The mission of HSHV is to promote the loving, responsible care of all animals in our community. HSHV is not affiliated with any other humane organization and does not receive funding from the United Way. More information can be found on HSHV’s website (hshv.org) and on our annual report (hshv.org/annualreport).
About Food Gatherers:
Food Gatherers’ mission is to alleviate hunger and eliminate its root causes in Washtenaw County. As the county’s food bank and food rescue program, Food Gatherers distributed 9.9 million pounds of food in collaboration with more than 140 community partners and programs serving adults, seniors, and children last year. For a list of our partner programs or to learn how you can become involved in the fight against hunger locally, please visit FoodGatherers.org or call 734-761-2796.