RedRover Awarded Grants to Nine Animal Shelters
The nonprofit provided over $400,000 in funding to support pet-friendly housing for domestic violence survivors.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Pets — General
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RedRover has awarded $404,311 in Safe Housing grant funding to nine domestic violence and homeless shelters across the United States. This initiative aims to increase access to pet-friendly housing for vulnerable populations.
Why it matters
Survivors of domestic violence and individuals experiencing homelessness are significantly more likely to seek shelter when they can bring their pets. These grants help facilities remove barriers that otherwise force people to choose between their safety and their animals.
RedRover distributed $404,311 in grants to nine shelters, with a maximum grant amount of $60,000 per facility. Statistics indicate that 50% of survivors would refuse to seek shelter if they could not bring their pets.
The players
RedRover
RedRover is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing animals and their owners together through emergency response and grants.
KONG
KONG is a manufacturer of pet toys and supplies that is partnering with RedRover to provide goods for the new pet-friendly facilities.
The details
Recipients include TESSA, Peace Place, Stay Together Furever, Continuum of Care, SALT Outreach, Catholic Charities Twin Cities, Avivo, Peter and Paul Community Services, and The Bridge to Hope. Funding will cover climate-controlled spaces, dog runs, veterinary care, and grooming areas, with KONG providing additional toys and treats through 2026.
Timeline
KONG will provide ongoing support for grant recipients through 2026.
Culture Shift
This initiative follows the ongoing work of the Purple Leash Project to integrate pets into social support services for those in crisis. It reflects a broader shift toward recognizing the role of pets in the healing and stabilization process for vulnerable individuals.
The expansion of these facilities ensures that more survivors and unhoused individuals can transition into secure housing without abandoning their pets. This reduces barriers to seeking aid and improves the long-term well-being of both pets and their owners.
The takeaway
Maintaining the bond between pets and owners is a critical factor in recovery and emotional stability for people in crisis. By investing in pet-inclusive infrastructure, shelters improve the success rates of their programs for domestic violence survivors.
Further reading
Learn more about how organizations are improving access to animal care at Pets — General.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Petage.
Live Poll
Should local shelters prioritize becoming pet-friendly to help more people in crisis access safety?
