As part of its outreach programming during the COVID-19 pandemic, BC SPCA facilities across the province have been delivering much-needed pet food and supplies to First Nations and isolated communities. “Thanks to generous community members who have been donating pet food at SPCA locations, we’ve been able to ensure that our neighbours feel supported and cared for, and that animals across B.C. have access to the items they need,” says Alison Cuffley, the BC SPCA’s government relations officer who is spearheading the organization’s reconciliation work.

Cuffley notes that Indigenous communities are systemically underserved. “During the COVID-19 pandemic especially, we recognize that there is a need to fill in these gaps.”

The BC SPCA is committed to reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. “Operating under the guidance of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and provincial legislation Bill 41, as well as the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, we are taking steps to increase our support to all of our neighbours during this difficult time, no matter how rural or isolated,” says Cuffley.

In recent weeks the BC SPCA in Chilliwack has been delivering pet food donations to several remote Indigenous communities in the Fraser Valley that have limited access to services and supplies.

BC SPCA branches across the province continue to accept donations of unopened, in date pet food (wet and dry), and cat litter. For information on how to make a donation or how to access support in your community, please call the BC SPCA Animal Helpline at 1-855-622-7722.