Humane Society HPE Celebrates World Animal & Pet Day with the Launch of the HSHPE Pet Food Bank

Belleville, ON - On October 4th, World Animal and Pet Day and the 3rd anniversary of the official opening of its new shelter on Wallbridge-Loyalist Road, the Humane Society Hastings Prince Edward (HSHPE) will officially launch the HSHPE Pet Food Bank.

It is estimated that more than 50,000 pets live within both counties (based on 2021 census data). In 2024, the average annual cost of care was $3,000–$4,000 for a dog and $2,000–$2,500 for a cat. Pets are cherished members of approximately 70% of households in Canada, yet rising costs are making it increasingly difficult for families facing financial challenges to provide proper care. Food insecurity is a leading factor behind pet surrenders—a heartbreaking decision no family should have to make.

“This initiative really captures what HSHPE is all about—caring for pets and the people who love them,” said Melanie Cressman, Executive Director of HSHPE. “We couldn’t do this without the continued generosity of our donors, suppliers, and supporters who make it possible. We are truly connected by compassion.”

The new food bank at the shelter located at 34 Wallbridge Loyalist Road in Belleville marks a significant first step toward addressing pet food insecurity across the region. While operations will begin at this single site, the long-term vision is to foster partnerships that, over time, may extend the reach and impact of this initiative to additional communities.

Families in need of assistance can contact the HSHPE shelter at 613-968-4673 or visit https://www.humanesocietyhpe.ca/hshpe-pet-food-bank.  All inquiries will be treated with respect and confidentiality. Availability of pet food depends on donations, and extra supplies are shared with families whenever possible.

HSHPE cares for stray, surrendered, neglected, and abused animals in Hastings and Prince Edward Counties. The Society returns lost animals to families, coordinates adoption of animals to forever homes, provides medical care and other necessities for animals in distress, supports spay/neuter services to control pet over-population, and educates the public about animal welfare.