The BC SPCA is seeking donations of new pet toys and treats for Charlie’s pet food bank to help make the holidays merrier for animals of low-income guardians in the Downtown Eastside.
“The people we support love and care for their pets and want to make the holidays special for them, but because they are living with very little disposable income, they need a little help to do that,” says Diane Waters, outreach specialist for the BC SPCA.
The BC SPCA has been operating Charlie’s pet food bank and free veterinary clinics in the Downtown Eastside for more than two decades, serving thousands of clients. “I have seen first-hand how our client’s pets have changed their lives,” says Diane. ‘They really want to be able to give their animals everything they can to make them happy and healthy.”
Donations of new pet toys can be dropped off at the Vancouver BC SPCA branch located at 1205 East 7th Avenue any time up to December 22. Items should be marked “Charlie’s”.
To help with the collection of toys and treats, 102.7 the Peak will be hosting a Donation Drive-thru on Sunday, December 12 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Vancouver Community College north parking lot beside the Vancouver BC SPCA branch.
The toys and treats collected throughout December will be packed up into gift bags and distributed to clients and their pets on December 23 at Charlie’s Food Bank on Powell Street. “We really look forward to making the holiday season a little brighter for our clients and their pets,” says Diane.
About Charlie’s Pet Food Bank
Charlie’s Pet Food Bank was launched in 2000 by Dr. James Lawson, a BC SPCA veterinarian, to help vulnerable, low-income populations care for their pets. Charlie’s Pet Food Bank runs once a week at 543 Powell Street where low-income individuals can get supplies and food for their pets and access medical, behavioural and veterinary services for their pets.
For more information, please call the BC SPCA at 604-709-4650 or email charliesfoodbank@spca.bc.ca.