My heart is heavy knowing that there are countless stray pets in our beloved Indianapolis who are neglected and go through life without the love they deserve. This issue affecting our furry friends is indeed personal to me and evokes a feeling of sadness I wish to turn into action.

It is alarming to know that, according to The Humane Society of the United States, about 6-8 million animals end up in shelters every year, with nearly 50% of them never finding a forever home (HSUS, 2020). Sadly, Indianapolis is not exempt from this sad reality, with many animals wandering the streets in search of food, warmth, and love.

The single most loving gesture we can extend to our stray animals is to provide them with safe spaces, giving them a fighting chance at a better life. This means lobbying for more animal shelters across our city. Shelters not only provide immediate safety and nourishment for these animals but also play a crucial role in connecting them with families who can provide them with a loving forever home.

Our collective action can have a profound impact on the lives of these stray pets, reminding them and us that they are a part of our Indianapolis, not forgotten, but treasured. It's time to turn our sadness and disappointment into positive change for these deserving creatures. The target is clear: boost the number of animal shelters in Indianapolis.

Join me in this plea for a safer and more loving Indianapolis for all our animals. Sign this petition now. Let's use our empathy as a catalyst for change where it is needed the most.