National Pet Food Bank Program

The COVID-19 crisis illuminated the need for animal shelters across Canada to adjust their operations in order to not only focus on protection, adoption and education, but also to provide critical social and community support to companion animal-loving Canadians who may be suffering financially during this uncertain time.  

As the financial crisis deepens, shelters are reporting an increasing need from their community, particularly for pet food. Support mechanisms are now necessary to ensure that families can afford to keep their beloved companion animals.  

Humane Canada has established a grant program that provides up to $7500 to support programs that serve their community through access to pet food and essential pet care items. It’s the first of its kind in Canada!

The third round of the National Pet Food Bank grants, made possible thanks to the generosity of PetSmart Charities of Canada™ and numerous individual donors, is currently under review with our granting committee.

Our granting committee would again like to congratulate the eight organizations that received a grant during the third granting round. We are so proud of their accomplishments and the important work they’re doing to support their communities.

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 vulnerable companion animals to stay with their families during the deepening financial crisis.
  • Help Humane Canada establish an effective, efficient and sustainable model for a cross-Canada pet food bank program that provides short term aid to companion animal guardians experiencing financial hardship. 

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 that have pet food bank programs or are interested in starting one.  Organizations can use the granted funds as they see fit to purchase pet food and/or essential pet care items (cat litter, collars, leashes, etc.) according to their community’s needs.  

How can I access food for my pet?

Humane Canada will not be involved in the distribution of pet food. We are distributing $40,000 total in grants to organizations that have pet food bank programs or are interested in starting one.  Organizations can use the granted funds as they see fit to purchase pet food and/or essential pet care items (cat litter, collars, leashes, etc.) according to their community’s needs.

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 operate a pet food bank. 

Who can apply to these grants?

These grants are intended for organizations such as, but not limited to, humane societies, SPCAS, food banks or animal welfare organizations that meet the eligibility requirements. Learn more about eligibility requirements here.  

What is the amount of the grants?

Grant amounts vary, up to $7,500 per selected organization.

When will the funds be disbursed?

Funds for the third round of grants will be disbursed in early 2023.