While the community’s hearts often go to those in need during the holidays, one they can forget is food for animal companions.
Shirley Moss, manager of the Port Townsend Food Bank, said that, unless those who donate to the food bank specifically stipulate they want their donations to go toward clients’ pets, the food bank is not allowed to direct donations to animals.
“Some people will say, ‘Oh, well, if you can barely afford to care for yourself, you shouldn’t have a pet,’” Moss said. “But for a lot of folks, especially the elderly, their dog or cat might be the only one who cares when they come home. For some people, owning a dog is the only security they have.”
Moss expressed gratitude to the Port Townsend QFC for recognizing that need, especially because of the “huge percentage” of food bank clients who also are pet owners.
Laura Hulsey, store manager for the Port Townsend QFC, credited the store’s “Promise Team” with arriving at the idea of collecting on behalf of the pets of food bank clients.
“They’re always looking for ways to help the community throughout the year,” Hulsey said. “After 9/11, we supplied treats to our local police officers and firefighters. In years past, we’ve collected toothbrushes and toothpaste for the food bank. This is just one more thing we’re able to do.”
From Dec. 15 through Jan. 15, the Port Townsend QFC is collecting donations of cat, dog and other pet food.
While they’re willing to accept cash donations, Hulsey echoed Moss’ reminder that it must be earmarked for pets, or else the food bank won’t be allowed to spend any of it that way.
Hulsey agreed about the importance of pets as companions to those in need.
“If they’re not able to buy pet food, they often wind up feeding their own food to their critters,” Moss said. “This leaves our clients hungry and their pets subsisting on food that’s not meant for them.”
The Port Townsend Food Bank is located at 1925 Blaine St., and the Port Townsend QFC is located at 515 Sheridan St.
