Four Ohio Shelters Receive Grants to Keep Pets and Families Together
When survivors of domestic violence or individuals experiencing homelessness are forced to flee unsafe or unstable conditions, they often face a heartbreaking choice: seek safety, or stay with their beloved pets. For many, that bond is too strong to break — and unfortunately, many shelters aren't equipped to house animals alongside people. But that’s changing, thanks to lifesaving initiatives like RedRover’s Safe Housing program.
This year, RedRover awarded more than $550,000 in grants to 12 organizations across the country, including four in Ohio, to help them build or expand pet-inclusive housing. These grants are more than just funding — they’re a lifeline for families, ensuring no one has to leave a pet behind in a moment of crisis.
Here’s how Ohio is leading the way in this vital movement:
YWCA of Greater Cincinnati – $60,000
Hamilton County | Domestic Violence Shelter | Purple Leash Project Grantee
The YWCA of Greater Cincinnati is creating a pet-friendly future for domestic violence survivors with support from the Purple Leash Project. By integrating pet housing into their programming, they're making it possible for survivors to heal alongside their pets. This grant will help the YWCA expand their capacity and ensure that no pet is left behind when someone chooses safety.
SICSA Pet Adoption and Wellness Center – $14,000
Montgomery County | Animal Shelter
SICSA is using their grant to support the Safe Pets Program, which provides temporary care for the pets of domestic violence survivors. This funding helps cover veterinary care, pet boarding, and supplies — allowing survivors to focus on healing while knowing their pets are safe. As President & CEO Jack Omer said, “No survivor should have to choose between personal safety and staying with a beloved companion.”
Found House Interfaith Housing Network – $60,000
Hamilton County | Homeless Shelter
For many experiencing homelessness, pets are family — and shelter policies that separate them can create barriers to accessing services. With RedRover’s support, Found House IHN will ensure that pets remain part of the family unit during times of crisis. “This grant allows more families to avoid the trauma of such a decision,” said Stacey Burge, President & CEO.
The Door of Hope – $43,000
Clinton County | Homeless Shelter | First-Time Pet-Friendly Program
This is a transformative step for The Door of Hope. With this grant, they’ll create their first-ever pet-friendly program — meaning no more impossible choices for the people they serve. Executive Director Stacey Strasser put it best: “To now be able to tell them, ‘Yes, your pet can come with you,’ is an incredible step toward true healing and safety.”
Why It Matters
91% of domestic violence survivors say their pets provided emotional support and protection during trauma.
As many as 25% of people experiencing homelessness have pets — and many shelters still don’t allow them.
Being able to stay with pets helps reduce trauma, support healing, and create a real path to stability.
With help from RedRover and partners like Purina and PetSmart Charities, shelters across the country are saying yes to families with pets. And in Ohio, these four organizations are making sure the human-animal bond isn’t broken in times of crisis.
