Local Love for Local Paws
Addressing the Need:
While delivering meals through Aster’s Meals on Wheels program, Monitors discovered that some participants were sharing their food with a pet due to food insecurity. In 2020, the Pet Program was introduced to help address this need and has successfully improved the quality of life for these participants and their pets. Aster is proud to meet the evolving needs of older adults in our community. As expenses rise for essential goods during the holidays, older adults on a fixed income are stretched thin, making the need even greater.
A Year in Review:
The Pet Program focuses on aiding our participants with caring for their beloved pets. In 2025 alone, donations have allowed us to provide 21,021 meals to pets! That’s 8,748 pounds of pet food delivered to 281 animals.
Quick Facts:
- 2025 YTD: 21,021 pet meals delivered
- 2025 YTD: 8,748 pounds of pet food delivered
- 2025 YTD: 281 pets served
Quick Facts:
- 100% of participants said that the program helps improve the quality of life for their pets
Donations to the Pet Program positively impact not only the lives of furry friends, but also the older adults themselves by alleviating the financial stress associated with pet care. A common sentiment amongst participants is that the program goes above and beyond to help seniors keep their pets. When asked her thoughts about the program, participant Jane (her name has been changed to protect her privacy), said, “What you’re doing, we love you and need this program. God bless you.”
The Gift of Giving:
You can help keep seniors and their pets together by making a contribution to the Pet Program this holiday season. Together, we have already made a difference for hundreds of pets and seniors in our community. However, we need your help. Aster's Pet Program is completely donation based, meaning that we can only distribute assistance equivalent to what we receive.
Neighbors Helping Neighbors:
Aster is constantly adapting to fulfill the evolving needs of East Valley older adults. The Pet Program is the perfect example of our commitment to upholding our mission, but we can't do it without you. The Pet Program is made possible thanks to the generosity of our community - your contributions directly support our senior neighbors and their four-legged friends. Aster is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization - your donation may be tax deductible. You can also make an impact beyond monetary donations - host a pet food drive with your community or simply get the word out by sharing the story. However you get involved makes a difference. So, as this holiday season approaches, we hope that you’ll take a moment to consider seniors and pets, and all the good that we can achieve together!
