The Purina Foundation Awards More Than $1.16 Million in Grants to Support Communities and Pets in Need
The Purina Foundation has awarded over $1.16 million in grants to support 27 nonprofit organizations across the United States in 2025. This initiative highlights the foundation’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the welfare of both communities and pets, continuing the philanthropic legacy established by William H. Danforth, founder of Nestlé Purina PetCare. These grants aim to address critical needs in Purina’s operational cities, which total 25 across the U.S.
Focus on Animal Welfare and Community Support
In a bid to strengthen the bond between humans and pets, the Purina Foundation is investing significantly in programs that improve pet care access and veterinary services. Noteworthy grants include funding for the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center to renovate its Family Pet Center and support for the Watertown Humane Society in Wisconsin to build a new veterinary resource clinic for both shelter and community pets.
Other key recipients include the North Scott Community School District near Davenport, Iowa, which received funding for veterinary science and technology equipment for its new Regional Innovation Center. The Iowa Central Community College Foundation also received backing for its veterinary training program, aimed at providing free care and nutrition support to local shelter pets in Fort Dodge, Iowa.
Additional grants targeted at enhancing community welfare include support for the Friends of the Animal Shelter in St. Joseph, Missouri, for new equipment at its veterinary clinic, and funding for the Humane Society of Deaf Smith County in Texas to construct a low-cost spay and neuter clinic.
Educational Initiatives and Local Impact
The Purina Foundation’s commitment extends beyond animal welfare into education and community engagement. Grants aimed at fostering future generations include support for the Clinton County Agricultural Society in Iowa for community center renovations and funding for the Boys & Girls Club of Ottawa County to expand its teen center in Oklahoma.
Other educational initiatives include funding from the Folds of Honor Foundation for a scholarship program benefiting family members of fallen and disabled veterans in Oklahoma City and support for the Stars and Stripes National Museum and Library in Missouri to enhance educational programs for youth.
The foundation’s efforts are also designed to bolster local community support. In 2025, it contributed to the United Way of Greater St. Louis, which serves over 1 million people by providing essential services such as healthcare and education.
Relief Efforts Following Natural Disasters
In response to several major natural disasters in 2025, including an EF3 tornado that struck St. Louis, the Purina Foundation allocated grants to support relief efforts such as those organized by Greater Good Charities, which assisted communities affected by wildfires in Southern California and flooding in Central Texas. The foundation also collaborated with local organizations like the St. Louis Community Foundation to facilitate clean-up and recovery efforts.
Established in 1951, the Purina Foundation distributes over $1 million annually to nonprofits that focus on strengthening the human-animal bond, supporting communities, and promoting environmental sustainability. The foundation’s comprehensive approach demonstrates its commitment to making a positive impact not only in the lives of pets but also in the broader community.
For more information about the Purina Foundation’s initiatives and support programs, please visit their official website at www.purina.com.
