Seven tons of good news

Springfield, Massachusetts-based Rocky’s Ace Hardware asked for a little help for the forgotten animals, and it received a lot.

Well over seven tons (14,727 lbs.) of pet food along with approximately $6,000 worth of beds, leashes, treats, toys and cleaning supplies were collected and delivered to local animal shelters as part of the 34-store retailer’s fifth annual pet food drive.

Each of the Rocky’s Ace Hardware stores partnered with an area Humane Society or Shelter to collect food this past holiday season for the much forgotten and unfortunate animals in the communities in which it operates.

“The outpouring from our customers was truly heartwarming. The collection total well surpassed our expectations. All of us at Rocky’s extend sincere thanks to our neighbors who gave so generously” said Rocco Falcone, president and CEO.

Geoffrey Webb, director of marketing and advertising, described the haul as amazing. “Together we were able to donate about 10% more food and accessories than last year; the efforts of our store team members in rallying behind this worthy cause along with the outstanding generosity of our customers resulted in an unprecedented overall donation to local, community-based shelters and humane societies,” he said.

The program supported more than 30 organizations that provide shelter, veterinary care and comfort for homeless animals in five states.

“Our team members really got behind this worthwhile campaign, encouraging our customers to support the drive. The numbers speak for themselves; our neighbors truly care for the homeless and abandoned animals in their community. We are honored to be a catalyst in achieving these outstanding results” added Falcone.

Rocky’s Ace Hardware is headquartered in Springfield and operates 34 stores in Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Florida.