By Stacy LeBaron
PAWSitive Pantry has just launched a special campaign to assist the pets and pet-owning victims of recent historic flooding in Vermont. Those who wish to contribute food toward aiding pet families in need can contribute via our Cuddly campaign at https://cuddly.com/pantry/4925177/vt-flooding-and-relief-efforts or to contribute financially please text VTPETS to 26989.
Ravaged by unprecedented and catastrophic flooding in July 2023, the city and surrounding areas of Montpelier, VT, have sustained immeasurable damage, and thousands of families have been displaced. Pet owners were scrambling to feed their beloved animals, but with Vermont Foodbank resources running dangerously low, the need for food continues.
Montpelier was inundated with historic rainfall, causing catastrophic flooding that turned streets into rivers. With Montpelier recently completely underwater, thousands of homes and businesses were claimed by this unprecedented weather. Many residents were forced to evacuate their homes and due to the damage, they weren't able to return. Finding affordable housing is a challenge for any family in Vermont, especially with pets. That is why we are appealing to you today to help.
An estimated 50,000 people in Montpelier and the surrounding counties were impacted by the flooding. Of those people, approximately 20,000 are pet owners. With one out of every four residents already receiving aid at some point from a Vermont food shelf, the need for pet food donations has never been greater. Displaced from their homes and with nowhere to turn, pet owners are desperate for help to feed their furry friends while they work to get back on their feet.
Although much of the floodwater has now receded, the affected cities have been left with significant damage. It will take a great deal of time and effort to recover and rebuild, and we fear that with so much work to do, the needs of pets will continue to drop lower on the list of priorities. The Vermont Foodbank has received some pet food donations, but with so many animals in need, resources are already running low.
If you can, please consider donating a bag or can of food, to help us ensure that no pet goes hungry. We cannot thank you enough for helping us to support this worthy cause. PAWSitive Pantry provides pet food free of charge to food pantries and to people in need throughout Vermont and Massachusetts to ensure no pets go hungry and to keep people and their pets together. Please visit our website at www.pawsitivepantry.org or email
LeBaron is the president of the PAWSitive Pantry board.
