21,000 Pounds of Pet Food Donated to Support NWA Families in Need

A Partnership Between the Northwest Arkansas Food Bank and the NWA Animal Alliance

The Northwest Arkansas Food Bank has donated 21,000 pounds of pet food to the NWA Animal Alliance, a coalition of 12 regional animal shelters and rescue organizations working together to serve families and pets across Northwest Arkansas.

This donation comes at a crucial time. With the recent freeze in SNAP funding, many households who rely on assistance programs are facing tighter budgets and hard choices—including how to afford pet food. The NWA Animal Alliance believes pets are family, and that means ensuring support services are available for both people and their beloved animals.

Thanks to the Food Bank’s generosity, thousands of pounds of dog and cat food are now being distributed across Benton, Washington, Madison, and Carroll counties. The Alliance’s network allows for efficient, local distribution—getting food directly to the communities that need it most.

“This donation will make a tremendous difference for families who are struggling,” said Kayla Mayes, Executive Director of Big Paws of the Ozarks and member of the NWA Animal Alliance. “No one should have to give up a pet because of temporary hardship. By working together, we’re helping families stay whole.”

Where to Find Pet Food Assistance

If your family needs help accessing pet food, please reach out to one of the following NWA Animal Alliance member organizations in your area:

• Fayetteville Animal Services

  • come during operating hours

• Washington County Animal Shelter (South Fayetteville)

  • call ahead for availability and to schedule (479) 695-3450

• Springdale Animal Services

  • come during operating hours

  • can call ahead: 479-750-8166

• Lowell Animal Shelter

• Bentonville Animal Services

  • call or email

  • Pets@bentonvillear.com

  • 479-254-2055

• Centerton Animal Services

  • call or email

  • (479) 795-0078

  • animalservices@centertonar.gov

• Bella Vista Animal Shelter

  • come during operating hours

• Paws and Claws Pet Shelter (Huntsville)

  • call ahead or email

  • info@thepetshelter.org

  • (479) 738-1505

• Big Paws of the Ozarks (Fayetteville)

  • text 479-316-6045 to check availability and schedule pick up

• Good Shepherd Humane Society (Eureka Springs)

• Humane Society for Animals (Rogers)

  • come during operating hours

    
    

Each partner will share food supplies with their surrounding community. Distribution timelines and pickup details vary, so please contact your nearest organization directly for availability and hours.