Pet Pantries: A Little Help That Means a Lot

Life doesn’t always move in a straight line. Bills change, hours get cut, emergencies happen—and suddenly even the simple things feel heavy. When you’re trying to care for the pets who comfort you the most, that weight can feel even bigger. But here in the Pickerington community, you’re not alone. And you’re certainly not failing.

That’s exactly why pet pantries exist.

Pet pantries offer free or low-cost pet food to families who simply need a little extra support. There’s no judgment, no pressure—just kindness. Every donation, every volunteer, and every bag of food is there for one purpose: to keep pets with the people who love them.

In our area, places like the

Pickerington Food Pantry, Fairfield County CARES partners, and several Columbus-area organizations offer pet food when times get tight. These programs understand the deep bond between humans and their animals. Pets bring calm, companionship, and unconditional love—especially during tough moments. Pet pantries help protect that bond by easing one small but meaningful worry: feeding your furry family member.

If you or someone you know could benefit from a local pet pantry, please remember—asking for help is an act of love. And your pet deserves to stay healthy, nourished, and right there beside you.

How You Can Help

If your heart is pulled to support neighbors in need, even the smallest gesture can make a real difference. Consider:

• Donating a bag of dog or cat food to the Pickerington Food Pantry

• Supporting Fairfield County CARES or other local pet assistance groups

• Sharing information about pet pantries with friends or community groups

• Volunteering time when you can, or simply spreading compassion

Sometimes the strongest communities are built one small act of kindness at a time. And together, we can make sure no pet in the Pickerington area goes hungry—and no family has to face hardship alone.

Because a little support, offered with love, can make tomorrow feel just a bit brighter for everyone. 🐾💛

Below is a list of local Pet Food Pantries:

Right in Pickerington / Fairfield County

1. Pickerington Food Pantry (PCMA Food Pantry of Pickerington)

   • 📍 70 Cross Street, Suite B, Pickerington, OH 43147

   • ☎️ (614) 834-0079

   • General food pantry for residents in the Pickerington Local School District; assistance typically once a month. Food Pantries+1

   • Many human food pantries also keep some pet food on hand when donated. When you call, ask specifically if they currently have dog/cat food available.

2. Fairfield County CARES via Choice Food Pantry (Lancaster)

   • Fairfield County CARES donates pet food to local food banks via Choice Food Pantry in Lancaster. PetPromise

   • 📍 (Choice Food Pantry address is in Lancaster, OH – staff at Fairfield County CARES can direct you.)

   • ☎️ Fairfield County CARES: 740-654-5000

   • Call and ask where/when pet food is available in Fairfield County and whether they serve your ZIP.

Columbus / Franklin County (still fairly close)

3. Columbus Humane Essential Care Center – Pet Food Pantry

   • 📍 3772 South High Street, Columbus, OH 43207

   • ☎️ 614-602-6700

   • Provides supplemental pet food for families struggling to afford food; appointments required, generally Monday–Friday. Columbus Humane

4. Franklin County Dog Shelter – Community Pet Pantry

   • 📍 4340 Tamarack Blvd., Columbus, OH 43229

   • ☎️ 614-525-3647

   • Offers free dog/cat food to pet owners in temporary financial difficulty; open during shelter’s regular hours (listed as 11am–7pm Mon, Tue, Thu; 9am–5pm weekends—verify before you go). Franklin County Ohio+1

5. PetPromise Pet Food Pantry

   • Based in Columbus; helps families temporarily struggling to provide pet food.

   • You apply online; food is first-come, first-served and availability varies. PetPromise

   • Also lists other Central Ohio pet-food resources (including Fairfield County CARES, Franklin County Dog Shelter, etc.), so it’s a good hub of info.

6. Blessing Animals Pet Pantry

   • 📍 P.O. Box 14702, Columbus, OH 43214

   • Email: bapp614@gmail.com

   • Nonprofit that provides pet food, treats, supplies and help for pets of families facing hardship; they often distribute through events/partner sites rather than a single storefront. My Site+1

   • Best to email or contact them through their website for current pickup locations and times.

Helpful directories for even more options

If you’re willing to drive a bit farther or want backups:

• Pets Daily Columbus – Pet Food Banks listCentral Ohio–focused list that includes Columbus Humane, Franklin County Dog Shelter, PetPromise, Blessing Animals, and more. Pets Daily Ohio

• Ohio-wide directories like PetPromise’s “Other Central Ohio Pet Food Resources” and Ohio Animal Advocates’ affordable-resources directory list additional pet food programs and food pantries that stock pet food. PetPromise+1

Quick tips when you call/visit

• Ask: “Do you have pet food available right now?” (supplies change week to week).

• Confirm:

  • What ZIP codes they serve

  • Any income or documentation requirements (ID, proof of address, etc.)

  • How often you’re allowed to come (monthly, biweekly, etc.).