Kicking Off 2026 with We Love Local: Manchester Animal Shelter
We were thrilled to kick off our first We Love Local of 2026 by returning to a cause that’s incredibly close to our hearts—the Manchester Animal Shelter. This marks our third year supporting the shelter, and each visit reminds us just how special this place truly is.
This year, we decided to do something a little different. Instead of a general donation, we worked directly from the shelter’s needs list to help support the animals exactly where it mattered most.
That meant shopping with purpose—and having a little fun along the way. From cozy essentials like cat litter and laundry detergent to keep things clean and comfortable, to dog treats, pill pouches, and collars for pups in care, every item was chosen with intention.
And of course, we couldn’t forget the smaller residents. We stocked up on timothy hay, vitamin supplements, enrichment toys, and even some fun surprises for guinea pigs, rabbits, turtles, and bearded dragons. Seeing how many different animals the shelter cares for makes it impossible not to want to help them all.
During our visit, we were also overjoyed to hear some amazing news—the shelter’s long-overdue and much-needed expansion has officially been approved and is set to begin next month. Even better? The lobby that’s often filled with small animals was completely empty because every single one had been adopted. There’s truly no better sight than that.
As a long-time volunteer, Gina is always especially grateful for the opportunity to spend time at the shelter, and Zak feels the same. Supporting the Manchester Animal Shelter has become a tradition we’re proud of, and there’s no better way to start a new year than by continuing to give back to an organization that does so much for animals and our community.
If you’re looking for a way to make a difference, we encourage you to consider adopting, donating, or volunteering with the Manchester Animal Shelter. Every act of support helps give animals a second chance and a loving future. Learn more at: https://www.manchesteranimalshelter.org/
Here’s to another year of We Love Local—and to wagging tails, happy homes, and the incredible people who make it all possible. 🐾💙
