Assemblyman Dave McDonough (R,C,I-Merrick) today announced that he is participating in the 6th Annual Legislative Pet Food Drive Challenge to be held from February 6th through April 18th. McDonough said he is honored to host this event once again and that animals bring a lot of joy and companionship to people’s lives.

“I have enjoyed hosting this event in collaboration with Long Island Cares and Baxter’s Pet Pantry in the past, and now I look forward to our efforts this year,” McDonough said. “Pets bring a tremendous amount of companionship and comfort to those living alone and the elderly and can also serve as friends for young children. I encourage members of the community to stop by and make a donation this winter. Even a small donation can mean the difference between a pet going hungry or possibly going to a shelter.”

The best sizes of pet food to donate are five or ten-pound bags of dog or cat food. Canned food, kitty litter and new pet toys are also in demand. Members of the community can stop by and make a donation this winter. More information can be found at the Long Island Cares Web site or by emailing fooddrive@licares.org. Regrettably, SNAP funding does not include the purchase of pet food, which makes it one of the greatest demands at local food pantries.