Meet our founder

Emilia LOVES animals. One of her favorite activities is reading with her tabby cat, Sunshine, curled up outside.  She couldn't imagine her life without being surrounded by animals. Emilia has experienced and seen how much of a positive impact companion animals make in someone's life. After working at a local veterinary clinic, she noticed how many people struggle to provide for their pets (especially with food), even if they prioritize their animal's welfare. Though monetary struggles should not be a reason for giving up a pet, nor being able to provide for it, it is a massive problem in the animal community, and Emilia aims to address that issue. She was inspired by the Germantown Community Fridge operation, which uses the "take some, leave some" method: anyone can stock the food bank at any time, allowing anyone to take supplies whenever in a hassle and embarrassment-free environment.  When founding the Philly Pet Pantry, she decided to utilize this method to ensure that members of her community have access to free pet food whenever needed. She also wanted the Philly Pet Pantry to be a community effort; anyone who wishes to contribute to combating pet hunger can help, and that assistance will be much appreciated. 

 

Emilia was born and raised in Philadelphia, PA. She loves the city and wishes to positively impact her neighborhood. She currently attends high school in the Germantown area and works closely with clubs at her school to get students involved. The Animal Leadership Club is one, and they collaborate to host school-wide collection drives.  Even though she lives in the city, there was never a moment in which she did not have pets running around her house, and she hopes that anyone who wants to experience the joys of animal companionship can. She has 5 cats (Sunshine, Honeybee, Olivia, Oliver, and Banana) and 2 dogs (Cosita, a pomeranian, and Coco Bean, a bulldog). They each are ecstatic about the Philly Pet Pantry, as their love for treats and wet food knows no bounds, and they want their fellow cats and dogs to have access to healthy food and treats!  Check out the rest of our website for more information on donating and supporting our pet pantries.

 

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