By Jamie Strickland
Selma resident Angel Autry’s recent experience with financial hardship and homelessness has sparked the creation of a local effort that is now helping other pet owners keep their animals fed.
She and her mother spent about nine months without stable housing, a situation complicated by a car accident that further strained their finances. At times, they faced the difficult choice of feeding themselves or their pets.
“There was really no way for us to buy food and also buy them food,” Autry said.
Despite those circumstances, she and her family were able to keep their cats and dog, thanks to donations and support from the community that helped them get through that difficult time. That support left a lasting impression and ultimately became the foundation for her mission today: making sure local pets don’t go hungry.
Now as she settles into permanent housing in Selma, Autry has founded Groots Pet Food Pantry, named after her beloved cat, Groot.
Every day, she stocks the pantry with bags of portioned dry food for dogs and cats, canned pet food, toys and other supplies. By the end of the day, the shelves are often bare again, with Autry estimating that about 150 people regularly utilize the pantry to help keep their pets fed. Others in the community contribute with donations to help her keep the mission going.
She carefully stretches donations and portions items out so everyone can get what they need while still leaving something for others.
“My whole goal is for people not to have to take their pet to a shelter or leave them on the street,” she said. “I’m just happy to know that your animal is fed and not going hungry.”
For Autry, the mission is rooted in gratitude and lived experience. She hopes others won’t have to give up their pets during hard times, and that animals won’t suffer from hunger because their owners are struggling.
Groots Pet Food Pantry welcomes donations and Autry shares updates and information through the Facebook page Grootspetfoodpantry, where contributions and support are always welcome.
