http://www.pr.com/press-release/73643
Pets of Homeless - A Forgotten Part of the Growing Problem of Homelessness
Most people who experience homelessness (eighty percent) are homeless for a short period of time, and usually need help finding housing and/or a rent subsidy. But unfortunately, for those with pets it becomes more difficult.
Carson City, NV, February 25, 2008 --(PR.com)-- The winter weather of 2008 is causing havoc across the country. For advocates of the homeless they are very concerned as the homeless try to find shelter from the weather conditions. Advocates of pets of the homeless are also troubled because those shelters will not allow pets to stay inside.
Most people who experience homelessness (eighty percent) are homeless for a short period of time, and usually need help finding housing and/or a rent subsidy. But unfortunately, for those with pets it becomes more difficult. Many are forced to choose between their pet and 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, offer comfort, and provide an emotional bond of loyalty. In some cases they provide the homeless protection and keep them warm. The tragic part is, the pets of the homeless do not choose their owners.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development suggests there are about 750,000 homeless people in the nation on any given night, and over forty four percent were unsheltered. Many homeless people have pets. It is estimated by the National Coalition for the Homeless, Michael Stoops, Executive Director that between five and ten percent of homeless people have dogs and/or cats. In some areas of the country that number is greater. Monte Fast, Executive Director of FISH (Friends in Service Helping) in Carson City, Nevada says the figure is more like twenty five percent in his mission area that includes Carson City, Douglas, Lyon, and Story Counties.
Finding any kind of shelter for those with pets is impossible but finding food may have just gotten easier in a few communities. Feeding Pets of the Homeless is an organization of 50 members in 22 states that helps feed the pets of the homeless and disadvantaged. The non profit organization enrolls veterinarian hospitals, clinics and pet related businesses around the country to collect pet food from their clientele and the public in their local communities. The members partner with local food banks, shelters or soup kitchens. The food banks then distribute the pet food to the homeless and disadvantaged.
Feeding Pets of the Homeless is a nonprofit organization providing pet food and veterinarian care to the homeless and less fortunate in local communities across the United States. More information and locations of collection sites can be found at
www.petsofhomeless.org or call (775) 841-7463.
Contact: Genevieve Frederick, Executive Director
Feeding Pets of the Homeless
2255 Waterford Place
Carson City, NV 89703
(775) 841-7463
Fax (775) 841-7163
info@petsofhomeless.org
www.petsofhomeless.org
