As the cost of pet food continues to climb, Feeding Tampa Bay has partnered with Greater Good Charities and the Humane Society of Tampa Bay to make pet food and supplies a consistent offering at its food distribution markets.
Through the partnership, people visiting Feeding Tampa Bay’s Hillsborough and Pinellas County markets can now pick up items for their dogs and cats — including food, toys, bowls, and leashes — every time the markets are open.
The initiative comes as financial pressure on pet owners grows. According to petfoodindustry.com, “Petflation” hit a record high in January 2026, rising 0.3% from December 2025 and reaching 3.4% year over year.
Shannon Hannon Oliviero, Director of Public Affairs for Feeding Tampa Bay, said pet food is the single most requested item among the nearly 1 million people the organization serves in the region, adding that while the organization has supported pets and their families for years, availability had previously been intermittent.
Regan Blessinger, Marketing and Public Relations Manager for the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, said demand has grown steadily, with the need increasing each month as the cost of supplies rises.
Laura Littlebear, Executive Vice President of Programs for Greater Good Charities, said being able to offer not just food but also small comforts like toys can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
Information on market locations and schedules is available at ftb.org/causeway/the-market.
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