Unleashing Hope: How a Long Beach Ambassador Brought a Pet Food Pantry to the Unhoused

Diana Geosano, a Long Beach resident and ambassador for Project Street Vets, a Southern California nonprofit providing free veterinary services to people struggling with housing insecurity, has taken the initiative to bring a much-needed pet food pantry to the city's Multi-Service Center. This expansion of the organization's efforts aims to ensure that the unhoused individuals and their furry companions have access to the essential resources they require.

Bridging the Gap: Addressing the Needs of the Unhoused and Their Pets

Recognizing the Demand

As Geosano worked closely with the homeless population at the Multi-Service Center, she noticed a recurring concern – the need for pet food. "Homeless people will feed their pets before they eat," Geosano shared, highlighting the deep bond between the unhoused and their animal companions. Driven by this observation, Geosano knew that establishing a pet food pantry would be a game-changer in supporting these individuals and their furry friends.

Expanding Project Street Vets' Reach

Geosano's involvement with Project Street Vets, a nonprofit that provides free veterinary services to the unhoused, inspired her to take action. When she learned about the organization's successful food pantry initiative in Skid Row, Downtown Los Angeles, Geosano saw an opportunity to replicate this model in Long Beach. "My number one goal was getting the outreach (aspect to Long Beach). That's happened (and) we've had four (outreach events) so far," Geosano said, highlighting her dedication to bringing the organization's services to her community.

Establishing the Pet Food Pantry

With the support of Project Street Vets, Geosano worked tirelessly to bring the pet food pantry to the Multi-Service Center in Long Beach. From Monday through Friday, during the center's business hours, free pet food will be available in bags for those in need to feed their furry companions. Volunteers from Project Street Vets were guided by Geosano to bag the food and treats into small plastic bags, ensuring a seamless distribution process for the public.

Securing Donations and Partnerships

Geosano's efforts have not gone unnoticed. Kismet, a premium pet food brand owned by singer John Legend and his wife, entertainer Chrissy Teigen, have donated more than 2,500 pounds of pet food to the pantry. Additionally, Legend and the founder of Project Street Vets, veterinarian Kwane Stewart, made a surprise visit to the Multi-Service Center during the initiative's kickoff, further highlighting the importance of this endeavor.

Commitment to Sustainability

Geosano's dedication to the pet food pantry is unwavering. She emphasized that the initiative will remain in place for as long as the Multi-Service Center needs it, underscoring her commitment to ensuring a continuous supply of food for the unhoused individuals and their beloved pets. "It's just one more thing that we can do for these people that really need our help," Geosano said, reflecting the compassion and determination that drive her efforts.The establishment of the pet food pantry at the Long Beach Multi-Service Center is a testament to Geosano's unwavering commitment to supporting the unhoused and their animal companions. By expanding Project Street Vets' reach and securing crucial partnerships, she has created a sustainable solution that addresses a pressing need in the community. This initiative not only provides nourishment for the furry friends but also serves as a symbol of hope and care for those facing housing insecurity.