Councilmembers Cyndi McNamara and Michael Iasilli, along with the Town of Southampton Veterans Affairs Committee and the Southampton Animal Shelter kicked off the “Help Vets with Pets” pet food drive at a Press Conference held Tuesday, January 20th, at the American Legion in Hampton Bays. The initiative aims to connect local veterans and active military to the Animal Shelter and invite the community to support them by donating food and supplies for their pets.

Councilwoman McNamara, liaison to the Veteran Affairs Committee, who brought her puppy, Indy, to the event, stated, “Whether it’s volunteering at the shelter, or having their own pet, we want to make sure that veterans understand that there are resources available for them.”

Councilmember Iasilli, liaison to the Southampton Animal Shelter, commented, “We are joining forces to address the needs of the veterans. We’re restoring a sense of purpose and a sense of belonging, not just for our pets who are in need, but for veterans who need companions. We’re collecting donations, so veterans in need can provide for their pets.”

“This is a great program to help veterans, who may decide not to feed themselves because they need to feed their dog,” said Bill Hughes, Commander of VFW Post 5350 and Chair of the Veterans Affairs Committee. “We’re grateful for this initiative.”

Rich Steiber, past Commander of the American Legion in Hampton Bays reminded everyone not to forget the cats. He stated, “They are a member of the family as well, whether it’s a dog or a cat, it would be nice to assist the veterans in feeding their other family members with four legs.”

“Those who served our country shouldn’t have to choose between caring for themselves or caring for their pets,” said Chris Teakle, Executive Director of the Southampton Animal Shelter. “A pet is like a family member – it provides comfort, companionship and stability, so through this food drive, our shelter and our community are coming together to give back to the people who have done so much for us.”

Pet food, seed mixes, and pet treats can be dropped off at the following locations in the Town, from now until February 20.

• Westhampton VFW Post 5350, 101 Old Riverhead Road, Westhampton Beach
• Hampton Bays American Legion, 55 Ponquogue Avenue, Hampton Bays
• Hampton Bays Community Center, 25 Ponquogue Avenue, Hampton Bays
• David W. Crohan Community Center, 655 Flanders Road, Flanders 
• Southampton Town Hall, 116 Hampton Road, Southampton

For more information, please contact the Southampton Town Council office at 631-287-5745.