RUTLAND—The Southwestern Vermont Council on Aging has received a $1,500 grant from Meals on Wheels America to support its client pet support program. Funding will be used to provide food, supplies and care for area clients with pets — all of which can be financially and physically burdensome.
In total, Meals on Wheels America has granted $300,000 to 193 local Meals on Wheels programs through the Meals on Wheels Loves Pets initiative this year. Funding is made possible in part through a donation from Banfield Charitable Trust. To date, the grant program has distributed more than $2.4 million in funding and pet food donations.
“While the benefits of companionship are clear, taking care of a pet can be financially and physically challenging for seniors,” said Meals on Wheels America Pres. and CEO Ellie Hollander. “Meals on Wheels Loves Pets helps local Meals on Wheels providers alleviate this hardship and at the same time reduce the negative effects of isolation.”
