Platinum Pets Gathers Essential Items for the Homeless

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Toothbrushes, soap and wool hats were just a few of the items employees with Platinum Pets packed November 30 at Share’s Fromhold Center as part of an annual event that benefits Share’s clients.

Share, a Vancouver, Washington-based a nonprofit, is dedicated to ending homelessness. The agency runs multiple programs to that end, including day shelters, temporary housing and moving people into permanent housing.

Platinum Pets and Share has developed the “Essential Pack Program.” The Platinum Pets team, along with volunteers from KMR Group Foundation, packed bags that will benefit 900 women, men and children when distributed during Share’s annual holiday party. Along with the daily items, children received backpacks, plush pets, crayons and coloring books.

“This is really a humbling experience,” said Melissa Pedraza, Platinum Pets’ general manager. “Putting these bags together is such a simple gesture, but one that means so much to the people who will receive them. We’re happy to be part of this effort to give back to the community.”

Platinum Pets is continually looking for ways to give back to the communities where it partners with independent retailers. In the past, the Platinum Pets team has participated in a walk/run to benefit Northwest Battle Buddies and donated its signature bowls and Pawsitively Safe lost pet finder system to organizations and auctions that benefit pets and veterans. In September, diners and bowls were sent to Houston to help pets displaced by Hurricane Harvey and to shelters established during the Eagle Creek Fire in the Columbia River Gorge.