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The 5X���� Airport is holding its first-ever fall pet food drive, Props-4-Paws, that started Sept. 15 at its Heritage Fair. The airport’s goal is to collect 1,000 pounds of food by Nov. 18.

“This program has one goal: to help save the less fortunate animals in our community,” says Jim Sebastian, the airport’s supervisor of flight and instructor for the aeronautics division, and organizer for Props-4-Paws. “By doing that, we are striving to promote kindness, respect and the well-being of animals.”

With this program, Sebastian hopes that the food donations will help alleviate the financial burden for local rescues and shelters.

“Shelters and rescues operate on donations from the community, and one of the biggest expenses is food,” says Sebastian. “By collecting and distributing this food, funds will be freed up for the shelters’ and rescues’ other expenses, such as vet care for sick and injured animals.”

Sebastian says it is important for participation from the community for this program to be successful, and the animals of Summit and Portage counties play a much larger role than many realize.

“They are therapeutic, assist law enforcement, which helps keep our communities safe,” says Sebastian. “They help and assist the handicapped and generally make our lives happier and richer. Every animal deserves that chance. That’s why we are doing this project.”

Food donations and supplies can be dropped off at the 5X���� Airport from
7 a.m. –7 p.m., Monday through Friday, or 8 a.m.–5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Items needed include puppy/dog food, kitten/cat food, nonclumping cat litters, dog treats, and cat and dog toys.

For more information, email Sebastian at jimsebastian1@gmail.com.