This Valentine’s Day, Niagara-on-the-Lake residents are showing a little extra puppy love — filling bowls for pets across the community in support of the Newark Neighbours Food Bank.
The Community Initiative for Animal Rescue, founded by NOTL volunteer Tanya Rice, is hosting its second annual Valentine’s Day pet food drive Saturday, Feb. 14, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 456 Line 2 Rd.
Donations of dry or canned cat and dog food, pet toys, litter, treats, doggie pads and new or gently used pet beds are welcome. Open items cannot be accepted.
“Newark Neighbours is such a vital fixture in the NOTL community,” Rice said in an interview. “It’s our goal to ensure that clients — pet owners — have food, not only for themselves, but for furbabies.”
Last year’s fundraiser brought in 610 pounds of pet supplies — a total Rice said organizers are hoping to exceed this year.
“With community support, we’re hoping to surpass that in 2026,” she said.
Newark Neighbours food bank manager Cindy Grant said the donations make a meaningful difference for clients and their pets.
“It’s important to be sure that food security extends to the furry members of their families,” said Grant, adding that both food bank staff and clients are grateful for the ongoing support from Rice and the group.
Adding to the Valentine’s Day spirit, a hot chocolate bar will be available, thanks to Sweets & Swirls Cafe and Coconut Quartz. The group is “very grateful to our co-sponsors,” Rice said.
