Pet Deposit Subsidy Program
The Anti-Cruelty Society Offers Financial Assistance for Pet-Friendly Housing
Pet Deposit Subsidy Program and Safety Net Service Keep Pets with Families
As the effects of COVID-19 pandemic continue, another crisis is unfolding. Thousands of people across Chicago are in danger of losing their homes as the moratorium on evictions comes to an end. The Anti-Cruelty Society understands the difficulties facing pet owners who are looking to secure pet-friendly housing.
To help pet owners overcome some of the obstacles, the Society created the Pet Deposit Subsidy Program. This unique program offers a one-time financial subsidy to Chicago pet owners who need assistance with paying move-in fees or securing pet-friendly housing. The goal is to keep pet owners and their animal companions together, and decrease the number of pets surrendered to area animal welfare organizations.
“Our goal is to keep pets with their families during this unprecedented time. The Pet Subsidy Program provides funds to help pay for a pet security deposit. This helps eliminate barriers for people forced to move and find the pet deposit limits their ability to afford housing. This program provides extra support and can make the difference to pet owners so they can afford pet-friendly housing,” said Lydia Krupinski, the Society’s Chief Program Officer and Vice President of Mission Impact .
Qualification is determined on a case-by-case basis and is currently only available for properties located within Chicago's city limits. Priority will be given to individuals experiencing financial difficulties.
Pet owners who need assistance should fill out an online application. For more information, call 312-898-0218 or email education@anticruelty.org.
The Pet Deposit Subsidy Program is made possible by generous support from the community, including a grant from PetSmart Charities.
In addition to the Pet Deposit Subsidy Program, the Society offers additional safety net programs to help keep pets with their families during this difficult time.
During the past year, support through these safety net programs increased significantly as people struggled to keep their pets. In addition to the Pet Deposit Program, other safety net programs offered by The Anti-Cruelty Society include:
Short-term Accommodations for Emergencies (SAFE) Program: Provides 45 days of free boarding to pet owners facing crises such as illness, fire, and domestic violence. The Society helps keep pets safe while their owners can get back on their feet.
Pop-up Pet Food Pantry: Distributes cat and dog food at food pantry events in underserved communities in Chicago including Roseland and West Garfield Park.
Friends Who Care: Delivers food and pet care supplies directly to the homes of pet owners over the age of 65.
Behavior Helpline: Helps answer questions and provide solutions for all pet owners who may be experiencing behavior issues with their cat or dog. Through this free service, our behavior specialists offer assistance on challenges from separation distress to aggression. The phone number for the helpline is 312-645-8253.
For more information visit https://anticruelty.org/safetynet or call 312-845-8338.