2/10/14 - A local organization dedicated to helping provide pet food to families facing financial hardship says 2013 was a record year with more than double the amount distributed, and a local family that has embraced the cause since its inception was a part of it. The Livingston Area Pet Pantry is a program under the Humane Society of Livingston County that was started in 2011 and partners with Gleaners Shared Harvest Pantry to provide food to pet families in need. The non-profit relies on donations and supporters like John and Sue Masek of Green Oak Township, who organize a collection drive every holiday season. It's become tradition and this past year marked their third and most successful endeavor, with more than $2,100 in cash and over 700 pounds of pet food collected. Their motivation is personal as Sue explained to WHMI and was prompted by the death of their golden retriever Annie after she was diagnosed with cancer. John says they started by passing out flyers primarily in their subdivision in 2011 but everything snowballed from there and they now hold several different events and fundraisers. He tells WHMI itâs a great cause and a great fit for them personally. The Maseks say as long as the Livingston Area Pet Pantry is around and the need in the community is there, theyâll continue to help. LAPP Spokeswoman Christine Blair says they always encourage businesses and individuals to donate so that as a community, they can continue to help fill the needs of pet families. She says they have a continual need for dog and cat food year round. While dry food is preferable, she says theyâll accept any donations to make sure they keep pets in the local community well fed and food available on the shelves at Gleaners. More information about the Livingston Area Pet Pantry can be found through the link below. (JM)
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