Hearts Alive Village Continues To Provide Pet Food To Las Vegans Impacted By Covid-19

LAS VEGAS - June 2, 2021 - PRLog -- Fourteen months after the COVID-19 pandemic ravaged the economy, Las Vegans are still struggling with the financial repercussions of shutdowns. In April of 2020, Hearts Alive Village expanded their Kendall's Kupboard food pantry to become the Pet Food Disaster Distribution Center for the State of Nevada. This program, made possible by food donations from GreaterGood.org and a grant for space and equipment from the Dave & Cheryl Duffield Foundation, continues to feed pets in more than 1,500 homes each month.

From April 15, 2020 to May 14, 2021, the organization distributed 90,070 lbs. of dog food, 16,460 lbs. of cat food, and 16,130 lbs. of litter to residents of Nevada. This translates to 4,585 dogs and 2,764 cats helped.

"Surrenders have increased over the past year as people struggle with sickness, unemployment, and even homelessness," said Christy Stevens, Founder and Executive Director of Hearts Alive Village. "We can't even imagine how much worse it could have been if we weren't offering this support."

During this time period, 4,419 families have requested food with 1,540 being repeat clients.

"On the application, we asked recipients if they had ever had to ask for pet food assistance prior to the pandemic. The results were frightening. Out of 2,959 applications, 2,279 said 'no'," said Stevens.  "We are so grateful to The Dave & Cheryl Duffield foundation for recognizing the need in our community and helping to fund such an important program."

"We are happy to be able assist Hearts Alive Village with their ongoing efforts to serve their community during this time," said Jerleen Bryant, Executive Director for the Dave & Cheryl Duffield Foundation. "While we hope that the need will lessen as things continue to improve throughout the state of Nevada, we will always be here to support the pets and people of Nevada who need our help."

While COVID-19 restrictions are being lifted and most Las Vegans are returning to work, the financial devastation to this primarily tourism-based town will be seen for years to come. Hearts Alive Village anticipates that the need for assistance will continue for some time.

"Our organization isn't just about rehoming animals; it's about keeping families together," says Stevens. "We will continue to work to ensure that no animals are surrendered due to a lack of food."

Individuals can enroll to receive pet food through the program at www.HeartsAliveVillage.org. An appointment will be scheduled and "drive thru" distribution will protect staff, volunteers, and recipients.

The website also includes information for those individuals and businesses that would like to support the program with a food or monetary donation.