DENVER, Colo. (May 7, 2025) — Two of Colorado’s leading nonprofits are teaming up to support families – and their beloved pets – in times of crisis. Colorado Pet Pantry and the American Red Cross of Colorado have launched a new partnership aimed at improving disaster response for families with pets across the state.

When disaster strikes—whether it’s a house fire, flood, or wildfire—families often flee with nothing but their family members (pets included) and the clothes on their backs. In these moments of chaos, pets can be left scared, hungry, and without basic necessities. To provide immediate, compassionate care, Colorado Pet Pantry is now providing the Red Cross in Colorado with Pet Comfort Kits—emergency care packages stocked with essential items for cats and dogs. These kits will be distributed by Red Cross disaster responders at the scene of emergencies.

"We recognize that when families are facing hardship, pets are part of that family," said Meredith Allin, director of development for Colorado Pet Pantry. "Being there to support both people and pets in those moments of crisis means everything."

The initiative officially launched on April 19, 2025, with volunteers assembling over 200 Pet Comfort Kits, which include essentials such as food, collapsible bowls, leashes, toys, treats, grooming tools and waste bags.

The impact was felt almost immediately. Following a recent fire in Westminster, Colo., Red Cross volunteers provided Pet Comfort Kits to the families who lost their homes. The supplies offered much-needed relief and pet essentials during an incredibly stressful time, helping to ease the burden as the family recovers.

As we enter the summer – when natural disasters like wildfires and floods are more common – both organizations are committed to growing the program. With over 65% of Colorado households including pets, ensuring that emergency response is both effective and inclusive is more important than ever.

As part of this new collaboration, the Red Cross will also join Colorado Pet Pantry's Animal Welfare Share Program, a statewide network that redistributes donated pet supplies such as food, treats, crates, carriers, and beds to other animal welfare and nonprofit organizations.

"Disasters don’t just impact people—they affect entire families, including pets. We're proud to work with Colorado Pet Pantry to ensure families have the support they need to care for their pets when everything else feels uncertain," said Ann Vastmans, interim regional communications director for the American Red Cross of Colorado and Wyoming.  

Together, the Red Cross and Colorado Pet Pantry are laying the groundwork for a more compassionate and connected emergency response system – one that recognizes the deep bond between people and their pets and ensures no family member is ever left behind.

"Pets are family, and especially during disasters, keeping families together is vital to every member's well-being," said Eileen Lambert, Colorado Pet Pantry wxecutive director and founder. "This partnership between Colorado Pet Pantry and Red Cross is only the beginning of the work that both agencies are doing to make hard times a little easier."  

Photos of the recent partnership event are available for download.

About Colorado Pet Pantry:

Colorado Pet Pantry is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a mission to keep pets with their families by providing pet food assistance throughout the state. Founded in 2013, the organization now supports thousands of families each month through more than 100 pet food pantry locations in Colorado. By partnering with human service agencies and community organizations, Colorado Pet Pantry prevents pet surrender and helps ensure that pets stay where they belong — at home, with the people who love them. Learn more at coloradopetpantry.org.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.