Dear Email,

A devastating cancer diagnosis left Lois hospitalized for eight months. Afterward, she began receiving home-delivered meals through Senior Citizens Inc., her local Meals on Wheels provider in Savannah, Georgia. That connection proved to be a lifeline during her recovery.  

“I couldn’t do anything for myself,” said Lois, who returned home from the hospital weighing 90 pounds. “When I was sick,” she added, “Meals on Wheels volunteers and the sanitation workers were the only company I had.” 

That changed when a small white kitten with calico markings showed up at her home. Though Lois had never had a pet cat before, she developed a soft spot for the kitten, who was thin and struggling to find enough to eat.  

So she made a decision — one that changed both of their lives. 

“I left my storm door open for her, and she came in,” Lois said. “That was the end of outside life for Grace.” 

Today, Grace is a constant companion, spending most of her time curled up in Lois’ lap or following her from room to room. She occasionally wanders onto the porch to sit in the sun by the flower pots, but rarely strays far from Lois’ side. 

For many seniors like Lois, pets provide vital social connections. In fact, 98% of Meals on Wheels clients with pets say their animals help them feel less lonely. But caring for a pet isn’t always easy. Some seniors go without basic necessities themselves — from food to medical care — just to keep their furry friends fed.  

We believe no one should have to choose between caring for themselves and caring for the pet they love. That’s why, with support from PetSmart Charities®, local providers across the country have delivered 20 million meals to pets since 2020. Thanks to PetSmart Charities, many local providers go even further by offering additional pet services like grooming, veterinary care and emergency boarding. 

This Pet Appreciation Week, we’re grateful for supporters like you who make this work possible. Together, we’re working to End the Wait® for full bowls and full hearts. 

Sincerely,

Meals on Wheels America

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