The National Pet Food Bank has been working hard to help develop robust community supports at a time where supports are more sought after than ever before. As the financial crisis continues and the effects of climate change cause the displacement of people and animals, many are turning to food banks to help keep themselves and their beloved animals fed. Food banks—both human and pet—can be crucial in keeping interspecies families together during these uncertain times.
A large part of this work is through the administration of the National Pet Food Bank grants. These grants support organizations in their development of pet food assistance programs that help those experiencing hardships keep their beloved animals fed.
Thanks to the generous donations of PetSmart Charities of Canada™ and numerous individual donors, the next National Pet Food Bank grant cycle launched on October 2nd. This means that a total of $40,000 will be distributed to help organizations develop pet food assistance programs across Canada.
This grant cycle will focus on northern, rural, and Indigenous-led programs that serve their communities through access to pet resources. Organizations and entities can apply for funds of up to $8000 to help develop programming to help keep people and their animals together.
Applications for the 2023 National Pet Food Bank grants are now closed.
What can you do to help?
Make a gift today to support the National Pet Food Bank Program.
With your financial donation, you will:
- Help animals to stay with their families during the continuing financial crisis.
- Help Humane Canada establish an effective, efficient, and sustainable model for a cross-Canada pet food bank program that provides aid to animal guardians experiencing hardships.
Special thanks to PetSmart Charities of Canada™ for its support for the National Pet Food Bank Program.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of pet food will be supplied?
Humane Canada will not be involved in the distribution of pet food. We are distributing $40,000 in grants to organizations and entities that have pet food assistance programs or are interested in starting one. Organizations and entities can use the funds to purchase pet food and/or essential care items (cat litter, collars, leashes, etc.) or pay for materials, shipping, and storage according to their community’s needs.
How can I access food for my pet?
For individuals in need of pet food, please contact your local SPCA, humane society, food bank or social service organization to find out if they have a pet food assistance program.
Who can apply to these grants?
This grant cycle is intended to focus on programs which:
- are Indigenous-led
- serve northern communities
- serve rural communities
This may include organizations or entities such as, but not limited to, Indigenous communities, humane societies, SPCAS, human food banks or human social service organizations or animal welfare organizations that meet the eligibility requirements. Learn more about the eligibility requirements here.
What is the amount of the grants?
Grant amounts vary, up to $8,000 per selected organization.
When will the funds be disbursed?
Funds for this grant cycle will be disbursed in late 2023.