Meals on Wheels and PetSmart Charities Celebrate 15 Million Pets Fed in Milestone Partnership

Celebrating a Major Milestone in Pet Welfare

In an incredible feat of compassion and generosity, Meals on Wheels America, alongside PetSmart Charities®, has reached a significant milestone—the delivery of the 15 millionth pet meal to homebound seniors and their beloved pets across the United States. This achievement coincides beautifully with Pet Appreciation Week, taking place from June 1-7, 2025.

The record-breaking meal was delivered to Kali Mae, a seven-year-old dachshund living with her owner Sharon in Waco, Texas. Sharon faces severe vision loss, which has made her homebound. With limited income, she often faced heart-wrenching decisions, sometimes opting to feed Kali Mae her own meals in order to keep her four-legged friend nourished. "My dog is what keeps me going," Sharon stated, reflecting the deep emotional bond between the two.

Meeting the Needs of Seniors and Their Pets

Meals on Wheels America serves as a vital organization for over 5,000 community-based programs targeting senior hunger and social isolation. Partnering with PetSmart Charities, which is known for its leading contributions to animal welfare in North America, they have successfully provided food, shelter, and love to seniors and their pets alike.

Research has shown that pet ownership offers essential comfort and health benefits for older adults. A remarkable 100% of Meals on Wheels clients express that their pets contribute to their happiness, while 96% believe their pets positively impact their health. However, nearly 50% of these seniors depend solely on Meals on Wheels to take care of their animals. This partnership ensures that participating clients can sustain their pet care without having to make the agonizing choice between nourishing themselves or their pets.

The Importance of Companionship

With loneliness affecting one in three adults over 60 years, it’s evident that social interactions are a critical factor in well-being. Meals on Wheels provides an essential service, fostering connections that go beyond meal deliveries. By incorporating pet care into their services, they help strengthen the relationship between seniors and their pets, providing them with emotional and physical support.

As Ellie Hollander, President and CEO of Meals on Wheels America says, "Providing moments of social connection is a crucial part of our service. Pets are a source of comfort for many seniors, and it is a privilege to support their pet parenthood through our partnership with PetSmart Charities."

Sharon's journey symbolizes how crucial these services have become. With the help of Meals on Wheels, she no longer has to make the painful decision of choosing between her food and that of Kali Mae. "I feel very blessed with everything. I have a lot to be thankful for," Sharon shared.

Aimee Gilbreath, President of PetSmart Charities, also emphasizes the mission of maintaining the special bond between seniors and their pets, ensuring that no one has to decide between their meals and care for their loyal companions.

Expanded Services for Pet Care

Thanks to support from PetSmart Charities, Meals on Wheels has broadened its array of pet-related services over the last six years. These services now include nutritional assistance, veterinary care access, dog walking, grooming, and emergency boarding. The initiative aims to make sure that seniors don’t sacrifice their pets’ needs while striving for their well-being.

Kali Mae and Sharon's story is a testament to the profound impact of companionship, exemplifying a powerful testament to loyalty, care, and love. "She loves me - and I love her. We stick together," Sharon says, encapsulating the essence of their relationship.

To discover more about Meals on Wheels America and how they are making a difference, visit Meals on Wheels America. For details on PetSmart Charities and its mission, explore PetSmart Charities.

As they celebrate this immense achievement, both organizations look forward to future milestones in their commitment to ensuring that seniors and their pets remain happy, healthy, and together.