When Zach Wilson's family decided to adopt a dog, he and his mom headed for their local animal shelter. When they got there, Zach was shocked: The shelter was overflowing with dogs and cats. Every cage was full.

Zach asked why there were so many homeless pets. He learned that many people had to give their pets up because they could no longer afford to feed them. Zach didn't think this was right, so he talked with his mom about how he could help. They decided to open the Central Florida Animal Pantry.

Feeding Pets, Keeping Families Together

"Many people here in Florida have lost their jobs and can't afford to feed their pets anymore," Zach, 9, explains. "We feed pets so they can stay with their families instead of going to a shelter."

Every Thursday, volunteers open the pantry to distribute pet food to people who can't afford to buy it. They get the food through food drives and fundraisers like dog washes—Zach's favorite way to raise money.

The pantry now feeds more than 300 animals each month, a number that keeps on growing. In an average week, they give out more than a ton—2,000 pounds!—of pet food. Zach and his mom are even thinking about opening more pantries.

From Pet Pantry to Animal Sanctuary

Zach knows that every animal deserves a good home. That's why he's helping pets stay with their families—and why his biggest dreams for the future include providing a permanent home to animals in need. "We are trying to raise money to open a sanctuary for elderly and disabled pets," Zach tells us.

Visit animalpantry.org to learn more about Zach and the Central Florida Animal Pantry!