Press release from Brother Wolf Animal Rescue and Meals on Wheels of Asheville Buncombe County:
Meals on Wheels of Asheville Buncombe County and Brother Wolf Animal Rescue are partnering to feed seniors and their pets as the need for assistance continues to rise during COVID-19.
“We’re seeing a growing need for food assistance due to the economic impacts of COVID-19,” said Debbie Sprouse, Director of Development at Meals on Wheels of Asheville Buncombe County. “Many of our senior clients have pets who they love dearly and they are just as concerned with their pets’ need for food as they are for their own nutrition needs.”
Brother Wolf Animal Rescue is providing dog and cat food to feed seniors’ animals in Buncombe County through Meals on Wheels’ distribution services. This food assistance is made possible through a grant that Brother Wolf received from the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS). HSUS created a COVID-19 Relief Fund in March as the crisis mounted and people began losing the ability to pay for essential supplies and veterinary care for pets. Gifts to the fund are helping address the ripple effect on animals in need due to increased financial insecurity.
“It’s more important than ever for nonprofit organizations to work together to find solutions to the hardships our community is currently facing,” said Leah Craig Fieser, Executive Director of Brother Wolf Animal Rescue. “We’re glad that together with Meals on Wheels we’re able to provide food for the whole family, two- and four-legged. We hope that this brings some relief and peace to those who are struggling right now. Especially during a time when the companionship of a pet means so much.”
Meals on Wheels of Asheville Buncombe County distributes approximately 8,000 meals per month to homebound seniors. Accessing food is a difficult challenge for homebound seniors, made even more complicated by COVID-19. Homebound seniors needing assistance can contact Becky Blalock, Social Services Director, at 828-253-5286.
Buncombe County residents who have a means of transportation can also seek pet food assistance from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Pick up is by appointment only. To make an appointment call the ASPCA hotline at 800-738-9437.
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