On March 23, in partnership with the Central Texas Food Bank, the Hays County Pet Resource Center hosted a drive-up food distribution for people and pets at McCormick Middle School in Buda. The event was open to anyone in Hays County and served over 250 families. Of the 250 families, an estimated 98% were in need of pet food.
Wet and dry food for cats and dogs was provided for families, as well as resource guide flyers that included information for medical assistance, behavior support and other low-cost pet services. The Hays County Pet Resource Center estimates that it distributed food to more than 195 dogs and over 135 cats! A survey conducted at the event reports that 59% of respondents could not afford or access pet food within the last two years.
The response to this event showcases the need for families to access pet food. It also highlights the need for strong community programs and partnerships with human services organizations because it is likely that there is also a need for other resources for pets in the community. This type of food distribution event, meeting people and pets needs, had not been done on this scale before and is a great accomplishment for the County.
"The Central Texas Food Bank was honored to participate in such a successful event that exemplifies partnership and solutions," said Sari Vatske, President and CEO of the Central Texas Food Bank. "This was a first of its kind distribution and we hope to provide the community with more opportunities and resources for their pets at future events to help close that gap and meet their needs.”
The event was made possible through the collaboration between Central Texas Food Bank, Hays County Pet Resource Center and Austin Pets Alive!.
