Why Cedar Rapids AniMeals?

Woman and dog Often referred to as Meals on Wheels for pets, Cedar Rapids AniMeals feeds needy dogs and cats across the Cedar Rapids metro area. Each month, we bag over 1,100 pounds of dry dog food and 700 pounds of dry cat food. Then, we deliver the bags to about 280 clients to feed more than 400 loved and loving dogs and cats. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization run entirely by passionate volunteers.

Our community benefits from this exceptional program. First, we keep over 400 dogs and cats healthy, in loving homes and out of over-crowded local shelters—preventing unnecessary pet abandonment or death.

We also improve the quality of life for pet owners. For people who are elderly, disabled, or otherwise in need, pets may be their service or support animals, sole companions or best friends.

Our History

The AniMeals programs started in San Diego after a Meals on Wheels volunteer saw a client share some of her free meal with her dog. Volunteers there eventually found many other meal recipients did the same.

In our community, a Petco employee learned of this program while looking for a way to help elderly people get pet food and prevent people in need sacrificing their own well-being for their pets. That Petco employee joined a Meals on Wheels employee and two volunteers from the Cedar Valley Humane Society to form Cedar Rapids AniMeals in 2000.

Who We Serve

Cedar Rapids AniMeals serves residents of Cedar Rapids, Marion and Hiawatha, Iowa who receive at least one of these:

Social Security benefits
Disability benefits
A referral from an eligible caseworker

If you think our program could help you or someone you know, find out what to expect when you apply for AniMeals.

Our Partners

Cedar Rapids AniMeals works with or receives support from the following organizations:

We greatly appreciate their support, and we need your support, too! Learn how to donate or volunteer.