In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, many in our region are grappling with loss—homes, livelihoods, and access to everyday essentials. Among the devastation, countless families are also facing the heartbreaking challenge of not being able to care for their pets.
With roads still blocked and supplies running low, local nonprofit Fixing the Boro is stepping up to provide crucial pet food relief, ensuring that no beloved animal goes hungry during this difficult time.
On October 5, 2024, a large shipment of 4,100 pounds of pet food is set to arrive from Hill’s Pet Nutrition. The delivery is scheduled for 8:30am, and they will meet at the Best Friends Animal Parking lot to redistribute their pet food drop. Volunteers are welcome. This new donation enables Fixing the Boro to extend their efforts and provide for six additional counties that have reached out for help. This follows the distribution of over 1,000 pounds of pet food already supplied to residents in our county and two neighboring ones.
“Our first order of pet food alone cost $800, and that’s only a fraction of what’s needed to keep these animals fed,” Fixing the Boro shared on their Facebook. “Families are focusing on restocking their own groceries, but we’re here to make sure their pets aren’t going hungry.”
The urgency is palpable as the need continues to grow. With many still trying to recover, clean up, and restock essential supplies, families can rely on the support of Fixing the Boro and local volunteers to make sure their pets are cared for.
“It brings literal tears to our eyes thinking of how worried someone would be, knowing their best friend might go without food,” the team also stated in their post.
Despite the overwhelming challenges, the community’s resilience and generosity have shone through. Neighbors are helping neighbors, and strangers are stepping up to offer assistance, while volunteers, first responders, and linemen work tirelessly to restore normalcy. “We are continually inspired by the love and resilience of our community,” Fixing the Boro said. “Your support means the world to us, whether it’s a financial contribution, a bag of food, or even a word of encouragement.”
With the pet food drop-off happening tomorrow at Fixing the Boro’s headquarters (915 E Inman St, Statesboro), the organization is calling on the community for continued support. Every donation—whether monetary or in-kind—makes a difference in easing the burden families are carrying. For just a few dollars, you can help fill a pet’s bowl and bring some relief to families dealing with unimaginable stress.
“We’ve now bagged over 1,000 pounds to distribute locally and to other areas,” Sarah Roehm of the Fixing the Boro team stated. “And with the 4,100 pounds arriving tomorrow, we’ll be able to share even more with groups from other counties that need help.”
Donations can be made via Venmo (@fixingtheboro) or PayPal (@fixingtheboro). If you can’t donate, spreading the word about the drive or simply cheering on the volunteers who have been working around the clock goes a long way.
