In Contra Costa County, neighborhoods and communities are teeming with the presence of feral, unwanted, and abandoned cats. They may go unnoticed by many, but certainly not by compassionate caregivers who dedicate time and resources to trap, neuter, return, and most importantly, feed these numerous colonies. For years, the ARF (Animal Rescue Foundation) provided a lifeline through a program that offered super low-cost spays and neuters and, crucially, distributed donated cat food from Purina intended for these feral cats. This food support program was vital in ensuring these animals—each a life deserving of food and care—could survive.

Recently, however, Joybound, which took over ARF’s operations, made a distressing decision to terminate the food program dedicated to these feral cats. Joybound plans to redirect the thousands of pounds of cat food, generously donated by Purina, to cats that already have homes. This leaves feral cats without the basic sustenance they need to survive. Many caregivers, devoted and kind as they are, simply cannot afford to purchase the massive quantities of food required to support these animals. If left without this crucial support, the feral cats face the grim prospect of starvation and suffering.

We urge Joybound to reconsider and reinstate the feral cat food program. This program has been pivotal not only in feeding but in managing the feral cat population through trap-neuter-return efforts. According to the Best Friends Animal Society, trap-neuter-return (TNR) is the most humane, effective method of managing and eventually reducing feral cat populations. Providing sustenance ensures each colony does not encounter needless death through starvation—a fate preventable with continued support.

By restoring this program, Joybound would uphold a legacy of compassion and responsibility. Feral cats did not choose their predicament nor can they fend for themselves without human assistance. It is our responsibility to provide that aid, ensuring that these animals can live healthy lives. Furthermore, supporting these colonies prevents further strain on community resources and reduces potential public health concerns associated with starving animal populations.

We appeal to Joybound to see the larger picture and to act benevolently, by reinstating the program that has been essential for keeping countless feral cats of Contra Costa County fed. Your signatures can make a difference. Help preserve life and maintain humane standards by signing this petition. Let’s urge Joybound to continue the commitment to life-saving support and care for these forgotten creatures.