Outreach groups bring relief to people and pets in homeless camps across Kansas City

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The oppressive heat is dangerous to people and animals living outside in the elements. KMBC 9 joined two local groups for an outreach mission to keep the homeless community and their pets safe. As the heat index cracks triple digits, volunteers are making sure people and animals are staying safe. “There’s a lot of people living in tents. Conditions are pretty bad, really hot out here,” said one volunteer outside a homeless camp near First and Lydia streets in Kansas City, Missouri. Pet Resource Center of Kansas City and Angel Hearts Rescue joined forces to bring relief and resources to homeless camps, caring for people and pets living in the elements. “In these cases, these people are outside, and they sometimes have limited access to shelter and cold water,” said PRCKC CEO Michelle Rivera. “Making sure that they have food… leashes and collars, dog bowls,” said Alice Delbosque, founder of Angel Hearts Rescue. “We try to work on how can we keep them safe in the area that they’re in and what they need.”PRCKC also offered pet vaccinations and checkups on-site in their mobile veterinary unit. Some in the homeless community choose to stay outside even in dangerous conditions because pets aren’t allowed at shelters. “If I was found to be homeless, I know I would stay with my pets no matter what,” said Rivera. “I’m not going to give up my pets and they’re not going to give them up either, so we just have to be there to supply those resources.” Outreach like these groups provides help those experiencing homelessness keep their companions safe and healthy. “There’s some that will not leave their side and their dogs are just so happy to see them… and that’s so important for us to know that they’re being taken care of and that they’re healthy,” said Delbosque. “They call them their emotional support. That’s how they get by and get up every morning, is by their cats and their dogs.” The groups help the homeless community year-round but especially in extreme heat or cold. They’re always in need of donations, whether it’s money or supplies. To donate to Pet Resource Center of Kansas City, click here. To donate to Angel Hearts Rescue, click here.