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The Winnipeg Humane Society is launching a holiday hamper drive to support its growing pet food bank, after demand surged 242 percent since April.
According to the WHS, appointments jumped from 88 in April to 301 in October, as more families struggle to afford pet essentials.
The WHS says the program helps prevent pet surrender to overcrowded shelters by keeping animals with their families. To meet rising need, the organization added two satellite locations this year and continues to run pop-up food banks.
The goal is to assemble at least 50 dog hampers and 50 cat hampers, each including food, treats, toys, and other essentials. A full list of needed items is available on the WHS website.
Donations will be accepted at the WHS shelter (45 Hurst Way) until December 3, and financial contributions can be made online by selecting Food Bank. Hampers will be distributed December 16 at the West End Resource Centre from 3 to 4 p.m., first-come, first-served.
