Woman opens food pantry for pets
Dog inspires owner to help meet pet needs
In today's difficult economy, many families are struggling to make ends meet and often turn to local food pantries for support. But what happens when these families have household pets that need to be taken care of? Tracy Harris of Mukwonago has founded Barney's Blessings Pet Food Pantry so family pets will not be forgotten.
Harris said she worked at an animal shelter for eight years, where she learned that caring for animals meant caring for those who care for animals.
"My goal is to see no companion animals go hungry and to see that they are not surrendered or abandoned because they merely need food assistance … In these difficult times, no one needs to lose their animal companion on top of it," Harris explained.
Harris adopted her dog, Barney, from a shelter, and Barney died in December. The loss paved the way for Harris' idea to start a food pantry for pets.
"I am quite certain Barney could never fathom that there are animals out there struggling to eat," said Harris. "He would have thought that is just plain crazy."
Although not a part of the Mukwonago Food Pantry, Harris is working alongside the pantry and has been given permission from pantry board members to use their parking lot to accept donations from 10 a.m. to noon Saturdays. Because of storage concerns, the pantry will not be able to accept pet food donations at any other time. Residents who already receive assistance from the pantry are qualified to receive the pet food. All they need to do is notify the pantry that they have pets and can use some sort of assistance, explained Harris. If anyone else needs assistance, they will have to request that through the food pantry and be able to qualify for assistance.
People interested in making donations can also stop by Espresso Love Coffee in Mukwonago, where there will be a donation bin.
Qualifying residents will be able to pick up their pet food from the Mukwonago Food Pantry one Friday a month - the same day as the SHARE pickup day (Jan. 29, Feb. 26, March 26).
Harris is unable to accept cash donations at this time; however, people interested in helping may drop off pet food items or gift certificates to specific stores. Some of the things that have already been requested are Purina Puppy Chow, Canidae dog food, cat litter, Kibbles & Bits and hamster food.
For more information, or to find out exactly what items are needed, visit www.mukwonagofoodpantry.org, click on "Contact Us" and fill out the comment form. Type "Barney's Blessings" in the comment box and your information will be directed to Harris. Or, e-mail Harris directly at barneysblessings@gmail.com.
"There is a tremendous need for this," said Mukwonago Food Pantry Executive Director Cynthia Eggleston. "It only takes one person."
"I wish everyone had the chance to have a little Barney in their life," said Harris. "Through this pantry, I hope to accomplish that - to give to those who are struggling, a little piece of Barney. To shine a little light in their lives, like he did mine."
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