Mesa Businesses Unite for Animal Rescue Drive
Nine Mesa businesses are participating in a month-long initiative led by Kelly Smith to support Lost Our Home, an East Valley animal rescue established during a challenging period in the Valley’s history. This past weekend, Smith and a group of volunteers kicked off the fifth annual “Yes to Pets” food and animal accessory drive aimed at aiding the Tempe rescue.
Food Drive Details
The drive runs until October 3, during which donations can be made at any participating Mesa business. Lost Our Home was founded in 2008 in response to the housing crisis that left numerous pets abandoned.
Founder’s Mission
Jodi Polanski, the founder and Executive Director of Lost Our Home, was alarmed by the number of pets left in foreclosed homes without food or water. With Maricopa County seeing the second-highest foreclosure and shelter euthanasia rates, Polanski noted the urgent need for services catering to both people and pets.
Expansion of the Drive
Smith first organized the pet food drive in 2022 with 30 businesses in Ahwatukee. It has since grown to include over 111 businesses as drop-off locations. Smith aims to support families to keep their pets instead of surrendering them due to financial struggles.
“We make it super simple for all businesses as we handle all logistics,” Smith said. “Businesses just need to encourage patrons and employees to donate.”
Items Needed
The drive is seeking various items, such as:
- Dry and wet cat and dog food
- Cat litter
- New toys
- Cleaning supplies
- Easy-walk harnesses
- Cat carriers
- Laundry detergent
- Cat and dog treats
Impact So Far
Since its inception, Lost Our Home has saved over 40,000 pets and assisted over 25,000 pet owners, adopting out over 12,700 pets and distributing more than 1.3 million meals to animals in need.
Anyone interested in supporting the cause can find out more at lostourhome.org.
Participating Mesa Businesses
- Mesa 4 Paws Pet Resort – 1608 N. Greenfield Road
- AZ Wound & Hyperbaric Medicine – 6553 E. Baywood Ave. & 1450 S. Dobson Road
- Camp Bow Wow – 2647 W. Baseline Road
- Chef’s Table Bakery & Café – 2729 E. Main St.
- Mesa Kids in Aviation – 4562 E. Mallory Circle #120
- Power Postal – 2824 N. Power Road
- Power Road Animal Hospital – 2333 S. Power Road
- U Break I Fix – 1545 S. Power Road
This collaborative effort not only helps animals in need but also fosters community spirit and support.
