From August 3 through August 10, New York State Senator Steve Rhoads, a longtime animal advocate, partnered with PetSmart Levittown and the Wantagh, North Merrick, and Bellmore Memorial Libraries to host a weeklong pet supply drive benefiting the Nassau County SPCA and Last Hope Animal Rescue in Wantagh. 

Spearheaded by Senator Rhoads’ interns Platonas Demosthenous and Daniel Donahue, the drive collected more than 450 pounds of pet supplies from residents throughout the community. Donations included cat and dog food, toys, blankets, beds, bowls, and other pet necessities.

The collected supplies were donated to the Nassau County SPCA, which protects and cares for animals rescued from abuse, neglect, cruelty, and other dangerous circumstances, as well as Last Hope Animal Rescue, which is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating stray and abandoned animals. The donations will help provide food, comfort, and essential care to animals as they recover and await placement in safe, loving homes. 

“Long Islanders have always shown an incredible willingness to come together when there is a neighbor, or in this case, an animal, in need,” said Senator Steve Rhoads. “Collecting more than 450 pounds of supplies is a tremendous reflection of the generosity of our community and will make a real difference for the animals being cared for by the Nassau County SPCA and Last Hope Animal Rescue. I want to thank PetSmart Levittown, the Wantagh, North Merrick, and Bellmore Memorial Libraries, my interns Platonas and Daniel, and every resident who donated to this important effort.” 

The pet supply drive is part of Senator Rhoads’ ongoing efforts to connect residents with opportunities to support organizations serving the community. The success of the collection demonstrates how local businesses, libraries, volunteers, and residents can work together to make a meaningful difference for animals in need throughout Nassau County.