VERNON, CT — The Vernon Pet Pantry and the Hockanum Valley Community Council will hold a special collection of wet and dry dog and cat food on Saturday, June 13, at Saxony Dog Park, 66 West St. The event is scheduled for 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., with volunteers on site to collect donated items for the pantry.
The Vernon Pet Pantry was established in October 2024 to help feed dogs and cats in need. Nearly 20,000 pounds of pet food has been donated to the pantry to date.
The food is distributed almost as quickly as it is received, which is why organizers scheduled the collection to replenish pantry shelves.
Lisa Moody, founder of the Vernon Pet Pantry, said the summer months can be especially challenging for donations.
"Every donated can or bag will make a difference - a difference between a dog or cat going hungry or being fed," Moody said.
Moody also said the pantry is trying to build up supplies for the months ahead.
"Donations typically slow in the summer and we’re hoping to stock our shelves to help us get us through to September. Unfortunately, while donations slow in the summer the hunger of cats and dogs does not slow down," she said.
She also urged residents to bring food donations to the park.
"Please stop by the Saxon’s Dog Park with a food donation and help beloved pets who cannot help themselves," she said.
Residents who want to contribute can drop off wet or dry dog and cat food during the five-hour collection window at the Vernon park. The event will serve as a seasonal restocking effort for the Vernon Pet Pantry as it works to maintain enough food to meet ongoing demand through the summer.
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