Assemblyman Ed Ra (R,C,I-Franklin Square) joined 22 fellow elected officials and 46 community groups in collecting a combined total of 22,521 pounds of pet food during the eighth Annual Legislative Pet Food Drive to benefit Baxter’s Pet Pantry – a pet food bank operated by Long Island Cares that provides struggling local families with pet supplies.

Ra is extremely grateful for the generous contributions of all who donated.

“Too often, families that have fallen on hard financial times are forced to make difficult decisions concerning their pets and whether or not they are able to continue supporting them. Baxter’s Pet Pantry ensures struggling Long Islanders aren’t forced to decide between feeding themselves or their pets when money is tight, and I am so grateful to all those who donated to support this mission.” said Ra.

Ra noted his appreciation for the staff of Long Island Cares, and honored the organization, alongside his rescue dog, Carter, with a citation commemorating the tenth anniversary of Baxter’s Pet Pantry. Long Island Cares organized the pet food drive.

“The staff and volunteers of Long Island Cares continue to make a positive impact on the lives of Long Islanders and their pet family members, and I am so thankful to have such a great organization operating in our community,” said Ra.