In a mass distribution event last week, the Good Shepherd Humane Shelter distributed more than 20,000 lbs. of quality dog and cat food in about three hours at no cost to pet owners in need.
According to Executive Director Cole Wakefield, the food came through a GSHS partnership with Greater Good Charities, an organization that works with major manufacturers and retailers such as Tiki Brands and Mars Pet Care to source large, truck-load donations. Pet food companies donate food for a number of reasons, often as part of their normal stock rotation.
“I spent about two years working to bring this program to our area,” Wakefield explained. “Because of the size of the deliveries a larger space was needed, and thanks the new building [in Berryville] we now have the logistical means to accept truckloads.”
The news is a relief to many low-income pet owners, some of whom have had to consider giving up pets because of increasing feeding and care costs. Although free to those on the receiving end, there is still a cost to procure the food.
“We acquire these donations for a small handling fee to redistribute them to the community,” Wakefield said. “Even with donations, each truckload can still cost us several thousand dollars between the handling fee, equipment rental and staff time. We do feel, however, especially these days, it is important for this support to continue.
“We anticipate being able to continue to stock area food banks for the time being as usual and hope to announce another large giveaway in the upcoming months. Our ability to do these big giveaways depends on what donations are available and whether we have the funds to continue the program.”
Area food banks that distribute pet food when it’s available include Flint Street Fellowship in Eureka Springs and Loaves and Fishes in Berryville. Smaller, daily sized portions of pet food are sometimes available at A Cup of Love Ministry in Eureka Springs.
Anyone having dog or cat food to donate or who desires to help fund a truckload delivery should
contact the Good Shepherd Humane Shelter at (479) 253-9188.