NEW YORK — On May 6, The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) received a donation of more than 800,000 pet meals from Stella & Chewy’s, a Wisconsin-based manufacturer, valued at approximately $530,000.

The donation will be distributed through the organization’s regional food banks in Miami, Los Angeles, New York City and Asheville, N.C. to benefit pet owners impacted by COVID-19.

“We know how special and strong the bond is between pet parents and their animals, and we are committed to bringing comfort and relief to those in need of an extra hand right now,” said Marc Hill, chief executive officer of Stella and Chewy’s. “This donation is the biggest in our company’s 16-year history and we could not have partnered with a better organization than the ASPCA. Our employees take great pride in knowing the difference the donation will make in the lives of these animals across the country.”

ASPCA will distribute the pet food as part of its ASPCA Relief & Recovery Initiative, a $5 million strategic relief program dedicated to helping people and pets affected by the pandemic. The organization has set up pet food distribution centers in various regions across the country as part of the initiative.

“Providing free pet food helps struggling communities in many ways. It certainly promotes the health and safety of vulnerable animals, but also makes it possible for families to count on the continual love and comfort of their pets, which is especially valuable during this crisis,” said Matt Bershadker, president and chief executive officer of ASPCA.

ASPCA has also rolled out affordable and accessible veterinary care in New York City, Los Angeles and Miami, as well as a rehabilitative center for under-socialized dogs and spay and neuter services in North Carolina.

Read about other pet industry companies giving back to support people impacted by COVID-19.