Kiwis Facing Hardship Forced To Choose Between Feeding Themselves Or Their Pets, Says Petstock Foundation
Nearly two-thirds of New Zealand households own a pet, with the number significantly higher for households with children at up to 71%.
The Petstock Foundation has partnered with the New Zealand Food Network (NZFN) to help provide relief to struggling families amid the cost-of-living crisis. Throughout August, the Petstock Foundation's commitment is to raise $100,000 across Australia and New Zealand which will supply pet food to families in need.
Nearly two-thirds of New Zealand households own a pet, with the number significantly higher for households with children at up to 71%. A recent study also found that people experiencing poverty go without food to provide pets in their care – something that NZFN's recipient food hubs also see on the front lines of food insecurity.
Naomi Mancktelow, Petstock Foundation said, 'The Big Hearts Project aims to empower individuals and families struggling to feed their pets. We know that people who experience hardship also tend to experience social isolation. We also know that having a pet companion can alleviate this.
'The Foundation is committed to leading change, strengthening the bond between pets and people, and creating lasting impact in local communities,' says Naomi.
According to NZFN, from July to December 2024, their partner food hubs reported that the top reasons Kiwis sought support were:
93% stated rising cost of living
59% stated unemployment
67% stated low household income
51% stated unexpected bills or expenses
CEO of the NZ Food Network, Gavin Findlay said, 'We're extremely grateful for the Petstock Foundation's support. As more families struggle to put food on the table, we welcome this opportunity to alleviate this burden on both the pets and their owners. We know that families on stretched budgets often face the hard choice of feeding themselves or feeding their pets. With the Petstock Foundation's support we can help take away that impossible decision, so no family member or pet goes hungry.'
Naomi said, 'This August, you can donate $2 to the Petstock Foundation to provide a meal to a pet in need. Either in store or online, this small donation will make a big difference. You will not just fill a bowl; you are supporting the emotional wellbeing for families under pressure, keeping pets in loving homes where they belong and empowering a better future for pets and people. Let's stand together for the pets that inspire us, and for the whānau who love them.'
How Kiwis can support:
Donate just $2 in-store or online: Pet lovers can donate at the Petstock counter in-store or online www.petstock.co.nz
100% of funds donated to the Foundation supports its charitable partners and projects like Big Hearts with all operating costs covered by the business.
ABOUT THE PARTNERSHIP
The Petstock Foundation and New Zealand Food Network have partnered together to distribute essential pet food to food insecure households across New Zealand. This partnership ensures that families struggling to put food on the table won't also have to surrender or neglect their pets due to financial constraints.
Through the support of generous Petstock customers, this campaign aims to deliver real, practical help to Kiwi households doing it tough, and ensuring no bowl or belly goes empty.
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