I receive messages everyday letting me know about wonderful organizations around the country.

Unfortunately I’m not able to post about them all, but I received information about Pets Of The Homeless and wanted to get the word out.

This organization is different than most of the others I have posted on, it focuses on keeping pets with their homeless owners by providing pet food.

It is estimated by the National Coalition for the Homeless that between 5% to 10% of homeless people have dogs and/or cats. In some areas of the country the rate is as high as 24%.

Most people who experience homelessness are homeless for a short period of time, and usually need help finding housing or a rent subsidy. But unfortunately for those with pets it becomes more difficult.

Many are forced to choose between their pet or a roof over their head. Surprisingly, most choose to stay on the streets with their pets for longer periods of time.

Their pets are nonjudgmental, providing comfort, an emotional bond of loyalty. In some cases they provide the homeless with protection and keep them warm. The tragic part is that the pets of the homeless do not choose their owners.

Pets Of The Homeless collects pet food and delivers it to food banks which have agreed to work with them.

They also collect cash donations, distribute grant applications to veterinarians, and other nonprofit organizations that meet their objectives.

Being homeless is hard enough, no one should have to lose their best friend because they can’t afford food. To donate pet food in your community check to see if a local collection site is listed.

If not, take an extra can or bag of pet food to your local veterinarian or another business and ask him/her to enroll so you and others in your community can help feed the pets of homeless and disadvantaged.