For people across Northern Tasmania, giving up a loved family pet is an almost unthinkable action. 

But people struggling to feed themselves are often forced to dump their animals.

Through its Mission Possible campaign with The Examiner, City Mission is asking people donating items to consider the needs of pets.

While the needs of people will always be at the forefront of City Mission’s work, spare a thought for pets walking through life alongside its owner.

Pet care items, brushes, kitty litter and leads are all welcome additions to the Mission’s token store.

Often clients live in units and could struggle to purchase the necessities.

City Mission business manager John Clements said pets were a source of joy for people in tough times.

He said the organisation could always use more non-perishable pet food. 

“It’s to support our clients that are by themselves and their pets are company, family and part of their support network,” he said.  

“Our focus is always on people but there is a need for donations that are a little bit different than what people would usually give.”

Mr Clements said people using City Mission services were sometimes reluctant to ask for pet products.

“They don’t want to feel greedy,” he said. 

Mr Clements said if pet food was not available, clients would share a plate of food with their animals.

“Often the pets are a little bit forgotten,” he said. 

We are now at the halfway mark of Mission Possible.

The campaign aims to see 5000 non-perishable food items donated to help Launceston residents.

Mr Clements asked people to think outside the square when considering which items to donate.

While the Mission would accept all non-perishable foods, he asked for more than tins of baked beans and soup. 

Personal care items such as toothpaste, deodorants and hair items are welcome. 

Visit any of City Mission’s stores and look for the yellow sign to drop-off your goods. 

All items donated by Launceston residents will go towards helping people in this community.