Long Beach’s Multi-Service Center (MSC) has expanded its offerings to include a pet food pantry, addressing a critical need for homeless individuals with animal companions. The pet food pantry aims to support the human-animal bond that is often a source of comfort and stability for those experiencing homelessness.
This initiative, launched on July 12, 2024, is the result of a collaboration between Project Street Vet, a nonprofit providing free veterinary care to pets of the homeless, and Kismet, a pet food brand co-founded by musician John Legend and his wife Chrissy Teigen. Kismet donated over 2,500 pounds of dog food and treats to kickstart the program, ensuring a steady supply of nutrition for pets in need.
John Legend, present at the opening, emphasized the importance of recognizing the humanity in those experiencing homelessness. The initiative builds on Long Beach’s existing efforts to collect pet supplies through donation events and library collection boxes.
Dr. Kwane Stewart, co-founder of Project Street Vet and Kismet’s chief veterinary officer, expressed hope that this pantry would be one of many to come. The success of a similar project inspired this expansion to Long Beach.
Mayor Rex Richardson highlighted the significance of pets in providing companionship and a sense of normalcy for those facing housing insecurity. The pet food pantry will be accessible during the MSC’s regular operating hours, offering a reliable resource for homeless pet owners in the area.
This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the importance of supporting both human and animal welfare in addressing homelessness. As Legend stated at the event, “When we think about people experiencing homelessness, a lot of times they’re thought of as a problem — but they’re human beings and they need all the help we can afford to give them. And one of the things that helps them so much is having their little furry friends with them.”