Via Community News Service, a University of Vermont journalism internship, in partnership with Vermont Public
COLCHESTER — Across Chittenden County, a folding table stocked with pet food, treats and supplies is making a difference for pet owners facing hard times.
At least once a week, Stephanie Gingras sets up the Mobile Pet Food Shelf at locations like motels, churches and community centers, offering free supplies to anyone who needs them.
The organization, which Gingras founded in 2023, relies on donations to keep items stocked.
Gingras is an animal control officer in Colchester, and she said the idea for the project came from what she was seeing at work: more families struggling to afford basic care for their pets.
“Just because people can’t afford food right now doesn’t mean that they don’t love and care for that pet,” Gingras said. “They weren’t always in this circumstance, and with a little bit of assistance, maybe they don’t have to stay in that circumstance.”
The Mobile Pet Food Shelf visits Winooski, St. Albans, Williston, Essex, Colchester and Burlington once a month, helping bridge the gap for pet owners facing difficulties.
In addition to distributing food and supplies, the organization provides information about low-cost veterinary resources. Gingras said connecting people to these services is a key part of the mission.
“One thing that sets us apart from just going to the food shelf would be giving people information about low-cost vaccines and hosting free clinics,” she said. “We also give out information about programs like the Humane Society of Chittenden County’s Community Pet Clinic and the Vermont Spay Neuter Incentive Program.”
Gingras says her organization plans to host a free vaccine clinic in July, continuing its effort to support both pets and their owners beyond immediate food needs.
Right now, she said the organization’s greatest need is donations of cat food and cat litter. Community members can also volunteer or learn more about accessing services through the Mobile Pet Food Shelf website, mobilepetfoodshelf.weebly.com.
Looking forward, Gingras hopes to expand the program into Addison County, reaching even more communities in need.