Grocery Buddy Program Launches in Winnebago County to Prevent Pet Surrenders

If SNAP benefits are paused due to the government shutdown, many Rockford-area families may be forced to make tough decisions when it comes to their pets, but a new Grocery Buddy Program has been created to help.

Things I'll Never Do

There aren't many things I say I will never do in my life, but three of the biggest ones are:

1. Go skydiving
2. Eat seafood
3. Talk politics

I may be terrified of heights and dislike the taste of all seafood, but I hate how political conversations make people behave the most.

Politics aside, the current reality of life is SNAP benefits may soon be paused if the government shutdown continues, and the hardships faced by many Illinois families will no doubt affect their pets too.

Illinois Shelters Brace For More Animal Surrenders

As the proud owner of two dogs, two bunnies, and a cat, I know firsthand that having pets is not cheap.

The sad fact is, many Illinois families often have to choose between feeding their themselves or feeding their pets, thankfully, there are pet food pantries that can help. But what happens when more people need help from the pantry, and they don't have enough supply to meet the demand?

Families are forced to surrender their pets to local animal shelters, who are already dealing with max capacity issues.

New Program to Help Rockford-Area Pet Owners

Animal shelters throughout the Stateline area are working proactively to make sure they can help as many pets and their owners face the financial challenges that are looming, and CARE for PETS has established a new "Grocery Buddy Program" to help Winnebago County families.

The ultimate goal of Rockford-area animal shelters, and CARE for PETS, is to keep pets in their homes and out of the shelter. Please consider making either a monetary donation, or volunteer to shop for CARE for PETS' Grocery Buddy Program, if you are able.

If your family needs assistance feeding your pets, please reach out to your local food pantry or CARE for PETS here.