PetSmart Charities Introduces ‘Pet Hunger Awareness Day’ on September 24th to Provide Aid to Struggling Families and Their Hungry Pets

PHOENIX, Sept. 20, 2024 – In a groundbreaking initiative, PetSmart Charities is set to launch its first-ever “Pet Hunger Awareness Day” on September 24, 2024, coinciding with Feeding America’s Hunger Action Month. This new observance, set to occur annually on the last Tuesday of September, aims to highlight the often-overlooked issue of pet hunger and its impact on families struggling with food insecurity.

The Hidden Face of Hunger

For many Americans, pets are more than just animals – they’re cherished family members. However, when families face financial hardships, the added cost of pet care can lead to heart-wrenching decisions. Eric Cooper, CEO of the San Antonio Food Bank, recounts a poignant story that underscores this reality:

“I met a family where the father had lost his job. They were considering giving up their dog due to economic hardship. Their little girl asked me, ‘Do you think they’ll have to give me up too?’ In her eyes, there was no difference between herself and their pet as members of the family.”

This scenario is not uncommon. PetSmart Charities estimates that 30 million pets in the United States live in homes grappling with food insecurity. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated this issue, with more people adopting pets during lockdowns, only to face difficult choices later as economic pressures mounted.

A Collaborative Effort to Feed Families – Furry Members Included

Recognizing this growing need, PetSmart Charities partnered with Feeding America to distribute pet food alongside human food at food banks across the country. Since 2019, they’ve donated over 30 million pounds of pet food, translating to more than 307 million meals for hungry pets.

Aimee Gilbreath, president of PetSmart Charities, emphasizes the importance of this initiative: “We’re passionate about keeping pets together with their families because it’s better for the health of the pets and their pet parents. Lending a hand to families in their time of need helps ensure pets stay in homes where they’re loved and out of shelters.”

The partnership has grown significantly, with over 113 Feeding America food banks now offering pet food alongside human provisions. This expansion comes at a crucial time, as the cost of pet ownership has risen by 11% in the past year, according to the American Pet Products Association.

A Day of Action and Awareness

To mark Pet Hunger Awareness Day, PetSmart Charities is organizing special distribution events at several Feeding America partner food banks nationwide. On September 24, pet parents in need can pick up food for themselves and their furry family members in cities including Detroit, El Paso, Indianapolis, Minneapolis, New York City, Phoenix, Salt Lake City, San Antonio, San Juan, and Tampa Bay.

These events are part of a larger effort that has already delivered over 350 million pet meals through partnerships with Feeding America, Meals on Wheels America, and other organizations.

Beyond Food Banks: Addressing Senior Pet Owners’ Needs

The initiative extends beyond traditional food banks. PetSmart Charities also supports the Meals on Wheels Loves Pets program, which has provided 13 million pet meals alongside food delivery for seniors. This partnership addresses a critical need, as Meals on Wheels America reports that one in five seniors will prioritize feeding their pets over themselves.

Ellie Hollander, president and CEO of Meals on Wheels America, explains: “Older adults enjoy so many benefits from caring for their pets. The comfort and companionship they offer boosts wellness, staves off feelings of isolation, and helps older adults remain active.”

A Call to Action

As Pet Hunger Awareness Day approaches, PetSmart Charities encourages all social services agencies to consider adding services for pets. They’re also calling on the public to support their efforts.

Alphia, North America’s largest pet food co-manufacturer, is answering the call by matching donations to PetSmartCharities.org up to $40,000 through September 30, 2024.

By addressing hunger “at both ends of the leash,” PetSmart Charities and its partners are not just feeding pets – they’re helping to keep families whole. As Eric Cooper from the San Antonio Food Bank aptly puts it, “There’s logic to a partnership like this.” It’s a partnership that recognizes that in times of need, every family member deserves support – whether they walk on two legs or four.