Wake's No Empty Bowl project helps pets affected by owners' virus-related job loss
Any Wake County pet owner who works in an industry that has reduced hours or eliminated their position due to COVID-19 mandates is eligible to apply to a local food assistance program for pets.
Friends of Wake County Animal Center (FWCAC) recognized an urgent need for pet owners that aligns with its mission to improve “the quality of life for animals in our community and their human families.” It created the No Empty Bowl Project to provide pet essentials, like food and kitty litter, to pet owners in Wake County whose livelihood has been directly impacted by COVID-19 mandates.
FWCAC offered a pet food distribution event on April 4, 2020, but the need persists. So FWCAC has been continuing to offer curbside pickup of pet essentials at its makeshift headquarters at Massage Luxe in Raleigh.
Pickups are by appointment only, and residents must first apply through a link.
In just over two weeks since the program's inception, FWCAC has provided supplies to over 560 animals, including a hamster, fish, a guinea pig, geckos, bearded dragons, parrots, cockatiels, rabbits, cats and dogs.
This project has been possible through the generous donations of others, including the Teddy Rox Foundation. Pet food and kitty litter can be dropped off at the Unleashed Cary Lake Boone trail or Stonehenge locations.
FWCAC accepts monetary donations to do the shopping and provide for pets with allergies or special medical dietary needs.
