Ark-Valley Humane Society (AVHS) successfully gathered around 725 pounds of dog and cat food and $71 in monetary contributions during its annual pet food drive held on June 21 at High Country Bank in Salida.
This year’s collection surpassed last year’s total of 693 pounds. AVHS Outreach Manager Emy Nettleblad stated that the target for this year was set at 500 pounds, as High Country Bank pledged to donate $1 per pound, up to $500.
Another pet food drive is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on June 28 at the bank’s Buena Vista branch, where High Country Bank will again match donations with $1 per pound up to $500.
“We’re very thankful to the Salida community and High Country Bank,” Nettleblad expressed. “We’re really thankful to any business willing to collaborate on a food drive with us.”
Volunteer Judy Haines echoed this sentiment, saying, “I’m always so impressed with the community for their generosity.”
Most of the donations were Purina ProPlan, the preferred brand for AVHS animals, according to Nettleblad. Other brands will be given to the community pet pantry at the Buena Vista shelter. Additionally, the Salida Community Center hosts a monthly pet food pantry.
There are no requirements to receive food from the pet pantry, and sometimes pet supplies are also available, Nettleblad explained.
The collected food is expected to last the shelter a few months. Additionally, many donors regularly drop off food directly at the shelter, helping sustain them throughout the year.
AVHS communicates its need for food donations through social media and email alerts, ensuring the community stays informed.
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