ANIMEALS VOLUNTEERS bag donated dog and cat food once a month that is redistributed to people and pets in need across Clark County. There are currently 18 volunteers.
Every pet needs a home. For those that are already lucky enough to have one, AniMeals is there to make it last.
The Second Chance Companions (SCC) program is a food distribution source that’s free of charge. AniMeals serves seniors, disabled people and individuals simply in need in the Clark County area.
Recipients of the food include senior living facilities, food banks, local shelters and Meals on Wheels folks.
Primarily, the two types of food given out are for cats and dogs. Periodically, food for smaller animals such as hamsters is provided as well.
The whole system works through community support. Currently, AniMeals obtains its food from free-will donations as well as food drives. Retailers, pet food suppliers and manufacturers also contribute by passing down salvage product and donations.
“Sometimes the only reason people get up in the morning is because of their pet and the companionship with it,” said team leader LaVerne Locey.
Anyone can make a donation by dropping off bags at numerous sites in the Vancouver/Portland area. People can also benefit the program by holding a pet food drive or just giving money.
Last year, approximately 17,650 pounds of food was redistributed through the service.
The commitment to the cause by its volunteers is very strong. If there ever is a shortage of food supply to seniors, the program will purchase it on their own. Though that is rare, when it happens it is always cat food that there isn’t enough of, never dog food, according to volunteers.
Locey said that once a month her team of volunteers meets at a rented storage facility where the entire donated supply is kept. While there, the volunteers transfer thousands of pounds into countless ziplock bags so that it is easier for the future recipients to manage. After that, the team drives the supplies out to the different pickup locations.
“It takes all day when we go do it each month,” Locey said. “Rain or shine we do it, we have canopies that we set up to help with the hard work.”
Many pet owners like the ones AniMeals caters to couldn’t take care of their loved one if it weren’t for the service. Whether it be because of lack of funds, or physical problems, nobody wants to see their pet leave their side.
“A lot of times people don’t have enough money to buy pet food, so they end up feeding their dog or cat their own food and then they don’t have enough for themselves,” Locey said.
Last year, AniMeals helped to feed approximately 450 cats and 750 dogs.
“Without the dedication of all the members of SCC and AniMeals this program could not be sustained,” said coordinator Trudi Enquist. “Not only does this service allow seniors to feed their beloved pets, it helps keep animals safe and out of the shelters by offering a way for them to receive the love and care they deserve.”
Accepted sponsors are acknowledged in many ways such as on food labels, website, social media, newsletters and other public outreach. For more information, call (360) 977-0534 or email animeals@sccpets.com.
AT A GLANCE
List of drop-off points
Donations of pet food are accepted at these locations in the Vancouver/Portland area:
All-Natural Pet Supply at 10501 NE Highway 99 or 3425 SE 192nd Ave.
Beastie Boutique in Salmon Creek
Canine Utopia at 1503 NE 78th Street, Suite 15
Cascade Park Animal Hospital at 16820 SE McGillivray Blvd.
Feline Medical Clinic at 5801 NE 105th Ave.
Mind Your Manners at 10501 NE Highway 99, Suite 35
Mud Bay at 2100A SE 164th Ave., Suite A101
Muddy Paws DIY Dog Wash at 13501 NE 84th St., Suite 101
Natural Pet NW at 212 NE 164th Ave., Suite 8
Pets on Broadway at 2762 NE Broadway in Portland
