Over the last few years, food insecurity has become a significant issue in Berkshire County. Many residents face challenges in accessing enough safe and nutritious food. It’s touching to witness the community unite to tackle this problem, with various organizations launching initiatives to help those in need.
The Growing Need for Pet Food
In addition to human food insecurity, there’s a rising issue of pet food insecurity in the Berkshires. I spoke with John Perrault from the Berkshire Humane Society, which operates a pet food bank for families struggling financially. Demand for this service is climbing.
Eye-Opening Stats
After the COVID-19 pandemic, there were around 2,400 requests for pet food assistance. This number has skyrocketed to over 6,000 in the last fiscal year. From July to November this year, there were 365 additional requests. Since October, 104 new monthly members have signed up for the pet food bank. The Purradise location in Great Barrington is particularly busy.
Holiday Help for Pet Owners
Recognizing the significant demand, the Berkshire Humane Society is holding a “Pet Food Pantry Holiday Help” event. They plan to distribute 1,300 bags of cat and dog food to assist pet owners during the holidays.
Signup Details
Here are the details for the pet food distribution:
Saturday, December 20:
9 am – 11 am at White House Square, 325 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington
1 pm – 3 pm at Carr Hardware, 179 State Road, North AdamsSunday, December 21:
10:30 am – 12:30 pm at the Dr. John Reynolds Adoption and Education Center, 214 Barker Road, Pittsfield
At these events, pet owners can remain in their vehicles while volunteers load food into their cars. Cat owners receive a 6-pound bag, while dog owners get a 20-pound bag—no questions asked. It’s open to everyone, regardless of their enrollment in the Pet Food Bank. For more information, visit Berkshire Humane Society.
Community Impact
This increase in food requests highlights a growing concern about food security, not only for people but also for their pets. As John Perrault noted, this trend reflects broader economic challenges facing many families today. Communities are stepping up, showing the importance of supporting not just neighbors, but their furry companions too.
As we navigate these tough times, it’s essential to recognize the interconnectedness of food security for both humans and pets. This holiday season, let’s support local initiatives that help every member of our community thrive.
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