The Pet Pantry of Lancaster County started in 2011 as an animal food pantry that operated out of CEO Melody Sanders' living room. As of March 2, the Pet Pantry now owns its "furever" home.

The organization's mission is to meet the community's need for affordable animal care, which the Pet Pantry aims to accomplish through its three pillars: feed, fix, and rescue. Through its food program, the Pet Pantry serves about 250 local families by providing an average of more than 70,000 pounds of animal food every year. These families must meet certain requirements that show they are taking responsibility of their animal by having them spayed or neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, and, for dogs, licensed.

Additionally, the organization offers low-cost veterinary services for dogs and cats. There is also a trap, neuter, and return (TNR) program through which feral cats are captured in a humane trap, brought into the Pet Pantry, spayed or neutered, then released where they were found.

The organization also rescues animals and puts them up for adoption. Cats are housed on the property while dogs are fostered until adopted. According to development director Lindsay High, studies have shown that foster-based dog programs are better for a dog's mental wellness. Individuals who foster the dogs get insight into the animal's in-house behaviors and preferences, which is information unattainable in a shelter situation.

"Our ultimate goal is to meet the need," said Sanders. "We have redefined what it means to provide accessible, equitable animal welfare services to families throughout our community. When we founded the organization, we knew the need was great and each year since we have worked tirelessly to be a trusted resource in our community."

Every year the Pet Pantry of Lancaster County provides homes for an average of 400 rescued animals, serves 1,000 feral cat TNR surgeries, and offers over $250,000 in veterinary care.

After bouncing around locations as the organization grew, the Pet Pantry of Lancaster County moved to its current location, 26 Millersville Road, Lancaster, in 2014. Like cats, the building itself has had many lives. It was first a residential home, then it became a police station, changed into a real estate office, and currently accommodates the Pet Pantry. Due to the intended purpose of the structure, it is not ideal for the organization's needs. High noted that the location has an odd layout with several ineffective spaces, but by purchasing the property, the organization can customize the space to fit its needs. The surgical wing will be the first area renovated, which will provide the organization with the opportunity to expand veterinary services and bolster animal care.

"We are most excited to be able to secure the future for animals in our community, so by buying the building, we will be here forever, and our services will be accessible to more community members," stated High.

To holistically meet the community's need for animal care services, the organization plans to provide a free vaccine clinic this summer, a 100-cat TNR clinic this fall, and a holiday pet food drive in the winter.

Volunteer and foster opportunities are available. To learn more, visit http://www.petpantrylc.org.