COLUMBUS, OHIO (May 7, 2020) — Columbus Humane is seeking to help pet owners in need through a new partnership with the ASPCA® (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®). In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Columbus Humane is providing free cat and dog food, provided by the ASPCA, for residents in the Franklin County area struggling to feed their pets. Starting today, pet food and supplies are available by appointment for pick-up and curbside delivery.
Contrary to popular concern, Columbus Humane is not seeing an increase in the number of people wanting to surrender pets. The community is trying very hard to keep their pets but needs support to do so. Columbus Humane has operated a pet food bank for decades, but increased demand required a more sophisticated distribution model and a brand new partnership for the animal welfare agency. To date, Columbus Humane has helped over 500 families with pet food assistance since the COVID-19 stay-at-home order took effect in March, thanks to a large donation from Greatergood.org and food and monetary donations from our generous community.
“This partnership means a lot to us,” said Rachel Finney, CEO of Columbus Humane. “We’re grateful to partner with the ASPCA to provide ongoing support for pets and the people who love them but are struggling. We believe wholeheartedly in collaboration, and this partnership means that we are able to connect 60-100 families a day with critically needed support.”
The pet food partnership is part of a national COVID-19 Relief & Recovery Initiative launched by the ASPCA to assist animal welfare organizations and struggling pet owners during this crisis. The response effort includes food distribution and urgent veterinary services in several cities across the country, as well as grants for animal welfare organizations in critical need of funds. For more information about the ASPCA’s COVID-19 relief efforts, visit aspca.org/covidalert.
Pet food assistance is by appointment only. Those seeking assistance should complete a request by visiting columbushumane.org/pet-food-assistance-program. There are two forms to select from based on those who have the means to drive to the shelter to pick-up pet food and those who need it delivered.
More Important Details:
Hours and Days for pick-up: Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM
The cut off to request food day-of is 7 AM
Those who have questions or difficulties requesting assistance can call us and leave a voicemail at 614-777-7387 or email us at questions@columbushumane.org
Those in the community with the means to support the effort are encouraged to mail or drop off pet food to Columbus Humane at 3015 Scioto Darby Executive Ct., Hilliard, OH 43026. There are donation bins set up outside the front door for those dropping-off supplies. Specific shelter needs can be found on the Columbus Humane Wish List online here.
Columbus Humane is also accepting monetary donations to purchase additional supplies and underwrite care for the animals sheltered. Gifts can be made online at www.columbushumane.org/give.
About Columbus Humane
Columbus Humane, founded in 1883, provides programs and services for animals and people in Central Ohio. It is our mission to fight animal cruelty, help animals in need and advocate for their well-being. We are a 501c3 non-profit law enforcement agency investigating reports of animal cruelty abuse and neglect in Franklin County. Columbus Humane investigates more than 6,000 reports of animal cruelty and neglect in Franklin County annually. For more information about Columbus Humane, please visit www.columbushumane.org and be sure to follow Columbus Humane on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
