PetSmart Charities and American Red Cross announce trailblazing partnership

PetSmart Charities is supporting the American Red Cross Red Cross Disaster Relief through the Annual Disaster Giving Program (ADGP) with a 3-year pledge of more than $2 million to ensure the organization is prepared to help people and their companion animals impacted by disasters in the US.

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"Nearly 90% of pet owners say their pets are members of the family, and this becomes especially clear during times of crises," said Aimee Gilbreath, president of PetSmart Charities, in an organizational release.¹ "We are thrilled to announce our innovative partnership with the American Red Cross. We know this critical funding will help ensure the organization is prepared to meet the growing needs of both people and pets affected by disasters. Pets play an important role in the emotional wellness of the people they love, and we want to ensure there are resources in place to provide for their stability, too."

According to the release, ADGP members pledge financial and in-kind donations ahead of disasters to support strong infrastructure, trained volunteers, cutting-edge technology, and key resources required for the Red Cross to offer relief and support. PetSmart Charities' donation ensures pets are part of disaster planning, response, and recovery. This collaboration will incorporate pet tracking into RC Cares, the Red Cross client management system, enabling staff and volunteers to provide virtual services to all family members or with "boots on the ground" in disaster situations, and develop pet-centric training and sheltering models.

"We're honored to count PetSmart Charities as a valued member of our Annual Disaster Giving Program," expressed Gail McGovern, president and CEO at the American Red Cross, in the release. "ADGP members are truly unique because their generous contributions to the Red Cross in advance of disasters allow us to prepare communities nationwide for emergencies and to respond immediately with food, shelter and care after a disaster strikes to help people in need."

Reference

PetSmart Charities supports American Red Cross humanitarian mission with groundbreaking new partnership. News release. American Red Cross; PetSmart Charities. October 20, 2022. Accessed October 20, 2022. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/petsmart-charities-supports-american-red-cross-humanitarian-mission-with-groundbreaking-new-partnership-301654309.html