91原创 Animal Protection Society (LAPS) has called on the community for donations as its Patti Dale Pet Food Bank runs low on pet food.
The program provides essential pet food to families facing financial hardship, helping them keep their beloved animals instead of surrendering them to shelters.
鈥淲e don鈥檛 want people to have to choose between feeding themselves and feeding their pet,鈥� said LAPS executive director Sarah Jones. 鈥淎 lot of people will choose to feed their pet before they feed themselves. That鈥檚 not the way we want society to have to work.鈥�
Jones told the Aldergrove Star that it has already helped 400 families feed their pets this year, distributing over 9,100 pounds of food. For reference, in all of 2024, the food bank assisted 626 families and gave out more than 12,000 pounds.
鈥淲e actually had empty food bank shelves the other day,鈥� Jones said. 鈥淚t was upsetting and concerning.鈥�
She said rising food insecurity and lack of affordability are driving the pet food bank demand.
The food bank continues to have its challenges as it also supplies partner organizations like the Aldergrove Food Bank, Kimz Angels, and Gateway of Hope to help the pets of their clients.
Jones also said that LAPS is having discussions about partnering with a community sponsor to ensure the food bank never runs empty again.
鈥淚f there鈥檚 any company or person who would like to partner with us, we鈥檇 be open to that opportunity,鈥� Jones said. 鈥淚t would help us always be able to say yes to the public and not no.鈥�
Community donations of dry or canned pet food can be dropped off at 26220 56 Ave.
