Winnipeg pet food bank urgently needs cat food

A pet food bank in Winnipeg has resumed operations after having to halt food distribution to cat owners due to lack of supply – but its manager says it’s unclear how much of time this limited amount will last.

Nicole Wilks, founder of Animal Food Bank, said enough donations had been received over the past week to feed the cats of about half of the 80 people currently on the list.

“So the need is still there,” Wilks told CBC Weekend morning show host Shannah-Lee Vidal.

Wilks said the organization’s Winnipeg branch receives inquiries from 200 to 300 pet owners each month, for animals such as cats, dogs, snakes, turtles and fish.

And across its three Canadian locations, there is one thing in common: Cat food is always in short supply.

Wilks said it was difficult to publicize the need as the organization was not allowed to meet with people from the community at events due to pandemic restrictions.

The organization offers a monthly service to anyone who requests it without having to prove their income level, she said. And guests are allowed to have up to four pets involved.

“We really want people to have easy access to our services,” she said.

“The point is always to keep the animal with the humans who love it. And so our mandate is to do whatever we can to help that, to facilitate that so that we keep them out of the shelters.”

Animal Food Bank will also accept donations of pet food, even if it is already open.

“We’re really not picky. We’re just grateful for the help,” Wilks said.

The organization is also in need of volunteers to help with fundraisers and more. Information on where donations can be dropped off is listed on Animal food bank website.