PetSmart Charities, Red Cross partner to tackle humanitarian missions
by Katie Pfaff
PetSmart Charities and the American Red Cross recently announced a partnership years in the making that will support pets as essential family members during times of disaster. More specifically, PetSmart Charities will support Red Cross Disaster Relief through the Annual Disaster Giving Program with a three-year pledge of more than $2 million, according to a news release.
The innovative collaboration will ensure the Red Cross is prepared to meet the needs of people and their pets affected by disasters big and small across the U.S. This partnership is the first of its kind between two foundational nonprofits — the leading funder of animal welfare and the largest disaster relief organization in the country.
Aimee Gilbreath, president of PetSmart Charities, said in the release that nearly 90% of pet owners say their pets are members of the family. “This becomes especially clear during times of crises,” she said in the release.
“We know this critical funding will help ensure the organization is prepared to meet the growing needs of both people and pets affected by disasters. Pets play an important role in the emotional wellness of the people they love, and we want to ensure there are resources in place to provide for their stability, too.”
Through the partnership, the organizations will create initiatives that include making sure pet tracking is included in RC Cares, the client management systems for the Red Cross, allowing staff and volunteers to provide services to all family members virtually or with “boots on the ground" in disaster situations. The organizations will also create pet-centric training and sheltering models with the Red Cross for its disaster response staff and volunteers.
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