Vernon Pet Pantry Has 16,101 Reasons To Celebrate 1st Anniversary

VERNON, CT — Oct. 21 marked the one-year anniversary of the creation of the Vernon Pet Pantry, which was established by a dedicated group of volunteers to seek donations of food "for hungry animals in need."

"We have had an incredibly successful first year," said Lisa Moody, one of the organizers of the pantry. "Thanks to the generous and caring donations of so many we have collected an astounding 16,101 pounds of food for hungry cats and dogs in and around Vernon.

"Our success is due entirely to the hundreds of wonderful and caring people who have responded to the mission of the pantry and who want to ensure that no beloved pet goes without basic food. We also owe an incredible debt of gratitude to the Hockanum Valley Community Council for being our partner and helping us to distribute the donations."

Hockanum Valley Community Council CEO David O'Rourke called thew Pet Pantry at HVCC "a vital part of our community’s commitment to compassion and care."

He added. "By providing pet food and essential supplies to families in need, the pantry helps ensure that no one is forced to give up a beloved companion due to financial hardship. Our mission is rooted in the belief that pets are family."

Moody said Food insecurity for cats and dogs - and their families - is "a very real and continuing issue."

Project leaders are encouraging people to donate dry and wet cat and dog food "and to support HVCC so that both families and their pets don’t face hunger."

A special food collection effort is slated for Saturday, Nov. 15 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Saxony Dog Park, 66 West St., in Vernon.

Volunteers will be on hand that day to accept donations of cat and dog food.

"And a special call is being made for cat and dog treats and toys so that Christmas packages may be made up for our furry friends. They deserve a a special holiday too," Moody said.