CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KCRG-TV9) -- These may be the final days of a Cedar Rapids nonprofit, that's been around for more than a decade. AniMeals delivers pet food to families who need help feeding their cats and dogs.
The group is based out of an old horse barn, off Mount Vernon Road. Inside, it’s packed with thousands of pounds of pet food. AniMeals often gives that food to people who have income restrictions and face a difficult question-- feed themselves or their pets. The nonprofit acts kind of like a meals on wheels for the four-legged.
"We deliver pet food, cat or dog, to about 410 pets a month," said Heidi Karr, president of AniMeals.
AniMeals started in 2000. Owners of the barn let the nonprofit use it for free after flood waters washed out an old storage spot, in 2008.
Mother Nature looks to again have taken a toll, though. The barn leaks. It's full of pigeons and bats.
"It's just getting to the point where it's too old,” said Client Coordinator Stepphine Tilden. “Repair is going to be too costly."
Owners have decided to tear the barn down. That means AniMeals has to go. Officials have fewer than 60 days to find a new spot that's at least 1,000 square feet. AniMeals budget, only about $100 a month.
Karr said the nonprofit’s future is uncertain without a new food storage facility.
“We're afraid that it might be the end of AniMeals, honestly," said Karr.
AniMeals put out a call for help on social media. At last check, no takers.
For now, the group is considering getting storage garages, but that will likely only delay things an additional month.
If you want to help, give AniMeals a call at 319-929-3451.
