In response to Hurricane Harvey, which ravaged areas of Texas and Louisiana, the AKC Humane Fund has donated $10,000 to the city of Houston through its “Sandy Fund.”
The “Sandy Fund” was set up in 2012 in support of people and pets affected by Superstorm Sandy. Since then, the fund has supported organizations performing disaster-relief services in their communities, as well as organizations (including clubs, shelters, and animal hospitals) whose services to pets, have been disrupted by a natural disaster.
“We will continue to do everything we can to support relief efforts in the aftermath of this storm,” said Doug Ljungren, president of the AKC Humane Fund.
The Houston donation was made to the Greater Houston Community Foundation and the Hurricane Harvey Relief fund created by Mayor Sylvester Turner. Additionally, the organization has donated a disaster relief trailer, which is stocked with essential dog supplies and can house up to 65 pets for 72 hours. It’s expected to be deployed on Saturday to where it’s needed most.
Two AKC Pet Disaster Relief trailers were already deployed to Fort Worth and Dallas earlier this week.
“Pets are part of the family and we understand how important it is to ensure their safety as well,” said Tom Sharp, AKC Reunite President and CEO.
Yesterday, AKC Reunite announced a Challenge Grant from Barbara and Bob Amen of the Greater St. Louis Training Club, who pledged to match donations to AKC Reunites Pet Disaster Relief Fund up to $10,000 to support family and pets affected by Harvey.
“We understand the magnitude of the devastation from this storm is yet to be seen and The AKC and AKC Reunite are here to help in any way possible,” AKC President Dennis Sprung said in a statement earlier this week. “If you know or hear of a shelter in need of supplies, please contact us at 212-696-8220 or email us at communications@akc.org.”
To make a contribution to the Sandy Fund, click here. For more on AKC Reunite’s pet disaster relief efforts, click here.
UPDATE, SEPTEMBER 5TH, 2017:
AKC Reunite would like to offer its sincere thanks to Barbara and Bob Amen and Pembroke Welsh Corgi Club of America Charitable Trust for each of their $10,000 matching fund challenges to help support Hurricane Harvey Pet Disaster Relief efforts. Both challenges have been met!
Also paying it forward, the American Shih Tzu Club Charitable Trust is proud to announce another $10,000 matching challenge. The Trust will match all donations received by AKC Reunite’s Pet Disaster Relief Fund dollar for dollar for a total donation of $10,000 to support efforts for the families and pets affected by Harvey.
Through Monday, September 5, 2017, $150,000 in donations have been received.
UPDATE, SEPTEMBER 6TH, 2017:
We’re pleased to report that the Shih Tzu Club Charitable Trust’s $10,000 matching challenge has been met.
More on Harvey:
Everything Dog Lovers Need to Know About Harvey
How to Help Those Affected By Harvey
Social Media Helps Volunteers Find Pet Owners Affected by Harvey