Staff Reports | Community Updates
The Arizona Pet Project has received a $30,000 grant from Dignity Health, part of CommonSpirit Health, to expand services for people experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity in the Chandler-Mesa area.
The funding was awarded through the 2026 Community Health Improvement Grants program and will support pet-inclusive services designed to help people access housing, healthcare and other critical resources without being separated from their pets, according to a press release.
Research shows that nearly one in five people experiencing homelessness will decline a shelter bed if their pet cannot accompany them. The Arizona Pet Project employs the state’s only Veterinary Social Workers, who are trained to address the needs of both people and animals.
The grant will allow the organization to place Veterinary Social Workers at partner agencies, including Lost Our Home Pet Rescue, UMOM New Day Centers and Central Arizona Shelter Services. The social workers will conduct needs assessments, develop stabilization plans and connect clients with support services.
Funding will also help clients meet pet-related housing and shelter requirements, including vaccinations, licensing and spay/neuter services. Additional assistance will be available for pet deposits, while short-term hotel stays will provide temporary housing for people and pets recovering together after illness, surgery or injury. Lost Our Home Pet Rescue will offer temporary boarding and foster care so clients can pursue medical, mental health or substance use treatment without relinquishing their pets.
“Grants like this one from CommonSpirit Health allow us to meet people exactly where they are, whether that’s helping someone keep a shelter bed because their pet can stay with them, or giving them the breathing room to focus on their own recovery while their animal is cared for,” Arizona Pet Project CEO Leanna Taylor said. “We’re grateful to CommonSpirit and Dignity Health for recognizing that the bond between people and their pets is part of the path to stability, not a barrier to it.”
Through the project, Arizona Pet Project expects to serve 100 people experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity who have pets in the Chandler-Mesa area. The organization said it aims for at least 90% of participants to report increased stability as a result of the services provided.
The initiative builds on Arizona Pet Project’s ongoing partnerships with human services and animal welfare organizations focused on reducing pet-related barriers to housing, healthcare and other essential services.
