Waukegan Park District hosting 15th annual Food for Paws Holiday Pet Food Drive

As the holiday season begins, lending a helping hand will benefit the animals in shelters or households that can’t afford food for their pets. The Waukegan Park District is hosting the 15th Annual Food for Paws Holiday Pet Food Drive, running through Friday, Dec. 5. Donations will be accepted at the Field House Sports, Fitness & Aquatics Center, at 800 Baldwin Ave., Waukegan.

The collection of pet food and supplies benefits Waukegan Animals Getting Saved.

Since launching the program in 2010, dedicated volunteers from WAGS and donations from the community have helped provide food and supplies to the animals in need. WAGS is a local nonprofit organization created to collect donations and supplies for the Waukegan Police Department Animal Control. The volunteers are passionate about helping the animals of Waukegan.

Assistance provided by these volunteers includes basic veterinary care, spaying/neutering, adoption, and community education.

“The holiday season is one of my favorite times of the year because joy is spread thanks to the generosity of the community,” President of the Waukegan Park District Board of Commissioners George Bridges said. “Being able to share joy with our local animals and families in need is a great way to make a difference this holiday season.”

“The Waukegan Park District enjoys hosting the Food for Paws Holiday Pet Food Drive annually,” Executive Director of the Waukegan Park District Jay Lerner said. “All items that are collected, small or large, make a huge difference and bring happiness to our beloved pets. As an animal lover, it’s great to be able to donate to this cause every year.”

“The Waukegan Police Department Animal Control is grateful for the efforts of the Waukegan Park District,” Chief Edgar Navarro of the Waukegan Police Department said. “From medicine to food, all essential pet supplies through the Food for Paws Holiday Pet Food Drive are helpful. The support from the community reflects the holiday spirit in Waukegan and it’s truly magical.”

The Waukegan Park District is accepting pet food and supplies, including unopened cans and bags of food, bowls, medicine, beds, towels, toys, collars and leashes. More information, including a list of accepted items, is available at waukeganparks.org/paws