SUMMIT COUNTY, Ohio — During this challenging year, more people have experienced food insecurity— a problem that has extended to their pets. The Humane Society of Summit County will distribute over 25,000 pounds of dry dog and cat food to Summit County residents in need.
Working with local food pantries, the humane society will disperse pet food to 15 locations through the end of December. The donations are expected to provide a one-month supply of food for up to 1,600 families and 3,000 pets. Two Men and a Truck of Akron donated their trucks and time to deliver the supplies to area pantries.
The food was donated through a grant from Summit County and Akron Community Foundation made available from the federal CARES Act funding.
“Our food pantries are at the front line of ensuring Summit County families have enough to eat in times of crisis. We know pet owners consider their pets to be their family members as well. We are proud to help people meet the needs of their pets during this challenging time through this supply of food. More than anything, we hope to keep families together,” said Diane Johnson-Owens, president and CEO of HSSC in a news release.
Open M and Sanctuary Church Food Pantry in Kenmore are among the organizations offering food to their clients.
“OPEN M is thrilled to partner with the Humane Society of Summit County to offer dog and cat food to our Food Services participants in need. We hope to provide a source of nourishment to all members of the family, human and animal alike, so that no one must go hungry to keep their pet fed," said Rachel Milliron, marketing coordinator of OPEN M, in a news release.
Anyone interested in benefiting from this supply of food is encouraged to reach out to their local area food pantry for distribution dates and guidelines.
