Much-Needed Funding Helps Keep Beloit area Seniors and Their Pets Together
Beloit, WI, June 16, 2017 – Beloit Meals on Wheels is proud to announce that it has received a $1,500 grant from Meals on Wheels America to support its client Pet Meals on Wheels 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.
“There is an undeniable bond between a senior and their pet, said Beloit Meals on Wheels Executive Director, Ellen Wiegand. “We are excited to offer our Pet Meals on Wheels program since pets are like family members and the givers of love and companionship. Research shows that seniors with pets are less likely to exhibit depression, report feelings of loneliness and experience illness.”
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 (BCT). 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 President 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.”
31% of Beloit Meals on Wheels clients own pets and this past January we distributed 236 pounds of pet food and supplies thanks in part to our partnership with Bubbles & Bows Pet. If you are interested in helping seniors keep their furry companions, donation sites and a list of accepted donations items are located at the Beloit Meals on Wheels office, at both Bubbles & Bows Pet locations (South Beloit, Illinois and Janesville, Wisconsin), and at American Dwellings Realtors in Roscoe, Illinois. Or you can donate online at https://beloitmealsonwheels.org/support-mow/
