Families Don’t Have to Leave Their Pets Behind

Sheri Madsen, Director of PR and Partnerships –

RedRover awarded $473,085 in Safe Housing grant funding in our first grant round of 2026. Thanks in part to Purina and anonymous donors, six domestic violence shelters, one homeless shelter, and one animal shelter can create or expand pet housing programs. Four domestic violence shelters received RedRover + Purina’s Purple Leash Project (PLP) grant, an extension of RedRover’s Safe Housing grants.

Domestic Violence Shelters:

Connecticut: *Meriden-Wallingford Chrysalis, $53,235 (Purple Leash Project)
Georgia: *Tri-County Protective Agency, Inc., $60,000 (Purple Leash Project)
Illinois: Harbor House, $60,000
Kansas: *Family Life Center of Butler County, $59,850 (Purple Leash Project)
Texas: *The Heights Ellis County Family Resources,$60,000 (Purple Leash Project)
Utah: South Valley Sanctuary, $60,000

Animal Shelter:

Virginia: Lucky Dog Animal Rescue, $60,000

Homeless Shelter:

Florida: *Waterfront Rescue Mission, $60,000

*Shelters creating their first pet-friendly program.

The Heights Ellis County Family Resources Advancement Director Jordan Molina, said, “This grant is truly life-changing for the survivors and pets we will serve through Safe Pets at The Heights. For many victims of domestic violence, fear for a beloved pet’s safety is a major barrier to leaving abuse. RedRover and Purina’s support allows us to create a safe, trauma-informed environment where families can remain together, heal together, and begin a new chapter without having to choose between their own safety and the safety of their animals.”

RedRover is grateful for its partners and donors for supporting survivors and their pets. For the third year, KONG® is providing pet toys and treats to all Safe Housing grantees!