TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) – With all the uncertainty right now, most local food pantries are struggling to keep the shelves stocked. That includes one that helps feed people and their pets.
The Paws and People Pantry feeds hundreds of people every month, but it is getting more challenging to do that. In fact, a few weeks ago, it had to close for a day because it didn’t have enough food to hand out.
Brooke Winkelman is a dog groomer by trade and a community helper on the side. She is the founder of the Paws and People Pantry in Toledo.
Her dream of helping feed people and their pets started with a small shed in the parking lot of her business.
In a matter of weeks, the demand was so high, Winkelman moved the pantry inside her building.
“Seeing people step up and work to donate and support my passion project has restored my faith in humanity a bit. Especially these days,” Winkelman said.
But getting help is especially challenging right now. In part because more and more people need help filling the gap.
“We’ve had so many new families signing up as well as people who haven’t come in for a long time. People who haven’t been in since the start of the year are now returning,” Winkelman said.
Winkelman said most people she helps work at least one job.
“I have teachers coming in, I have people with full-time jobs and people with multiple jobs,” Winkelman said. “It’s the right thing to do, helping people. I am in a position where I can. I’m not rich, but I am fortunate. I have the space and the people surrounding me who are helping and supporting me.”
One of Winkelman’s biggest helpers is her mom, Anissa Keeler.
“We’re trying to build the community. If people and their pets are hungry, you can’t be a productive member of society with burdens. We want our community to be great,” Keeler said.
After a lack of food forced them to close their doors for a day, the community stepped in.
“We wouldn’t be able to have the doors open if it wasn’t for the wonderful people in this community,” Keeler said.
And you don’t have to make a big donation to make a difference. In fact, you don’t even have to leave your house to come up with donations.
“We’re not asking people to go to the store and spend $50-$100. Just go through your own pantry. We all have things that are still good. But we know we may not use it. So let’s give it to someone who needs it,” Winkelman said.
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This article was published by WTVG on 2025-11-04 18:52:00
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