For anyone with a pet in his or her life, he or she knows they are more than just an animal. The pet is a part of the family. Many of Fayette County’s homebound seniors who receive Meals on Wheels will be the first to tell how much they love and value their pet family.
“For [Meals on Wheels recipients], their animal is a source of companionship and comfort throughout the day,” says Natalie Hynson, Meals on Wheels and Ani-Meals Coordinator. “They are there to keep them company when no one else can.”
Fayette Senior Services’ (FSS) Ani-Meals program has allowed many in our community to continue to care for their animals in ways they would not be able to by providing them with much needed pet food they wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford.
Since 2009, Fayette Senior Services, in partnership with Animal Medical Clinic and Banfield Veterinary Clinics, has collected and delivered donations of pet food for these animals on a monthly basis.
It was discovered that many Meals on Wheels clients were finding it challenging to provide food for their pets since they themselves were not able to leave their homes.
Some of these homebound seniors were going as far as to forego their own meals so that their pets could eat, too.
The Ani-Meals program is designed to give these clients help with the cost and delivery of pet food so they are able to maintain the important bond between a pet and their owner.
With ongoing support from the community, Fayette Senior Services has been the difference for these pet owners.
“The support we are constantly receiving is wonderful. We couldn’t do it without it,” says Hynson. “Together–as a community–we are allowing these homebound seniors to have a friend and to embrace a great amount of love that they would not have otherwise.”
Fayette Senior Services has another partner with Ani-Meals: VCA Braelinn Village Animal Hospital in Peachtree City.
VCA will be placing a donation box in their lobby as well as creating special sale prices for anyone who would like to purchase a bag of food to donate including, but not limited to, bowls, blankets, toys and treats. Stop by their location at 1130 Crosstown Ct. in Peachtree City and lend a helping hand in making a difference in the lives of these animals and their owners.
If you are interested in making a pet food donation or becoming part of the volunteer with Ani-Meals delivery team, contact Natalie Hynson, Meals on Wheels Coordinator, at 770-461-0813, ext. 127.
For over 30 years, FSS has been making a meaningful difference in the social, emotional, and physical well-being of adults age 50 and older in the community.
FSS provides a variety of essential services to the community such as Meals on Wheels, transportation, information & referral assistance, care giving, adult day care, home repair and the Ani-Meals program. FSS’ Life Enrichment center offers a range of social, leisure, travel and fitness activities in both Fayetteville and Peachtree City and also hosts the award-winning Ultimate Cafe.
For more information about Fayette Senior Services, visit www.fayss.org or call 770-461-0813.
