AniMeals, a Cedar Rapids service often referred to as “Meals on Wheels for pets,” is joining forces with the Cedar Rapids Meals on Wheels program serving older adults.
Horizons has acquired AniMeals, which feeds dogs and cats belonging to those who might otherwise be unable to take care of them due to physical limitations.
Started in San Diego by a Meals on Wheels volunteer who noticed older adults on the service sharing their meal with pets, AniMeals was eventually brought to Cedar Rapids by volunteers in 2000, according to a release from Horizons. In that time, the program has grown to serve 400 dogs and cats owned by 280 clients who are elderly, disabled or otherwise in need.
“AniMeals aligns perfectly with what we’re doing to combat isolation among seniors in the community,” said Horizons CEO and president Katie Oatsvall, referencing Horizons’ administration of the Meals on Wheels program in the Cedar Rapids area. “We recognize how valuable pets are to improving the quality of life for people. They provide service or support and in some cases are a sole companion, so it’s very important that we help them, that they may continue to help their owners.”
“Cedar Rapids AniMeals was established in 2000 in response to the discovery that many Meals on Wheels participants were sharing their meals with their pets,” added AniMeals board president Heidi Karr. “We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Horizons, Meals on Wheels. The collaboration between our two organizations is a natural fit.”
Like Meals on Wheels, AniMeals relies on volunteers to deliver food to the homes of clients. Pet food is stored and distributed separately from Horizons’ main location in Cedar Rapids.
For more information on AniMeals, including how to sign up or volunteer, visit cranimeals.com.
