How UPF Helps Animal Rescues: Our Four-Step Process

Dr. Zeke Zekoff
Feb 18
2 min read

At UPF, our mission is to ensure that animal rescues and shelters receive the resources they need to care for pets in need. From pet food to essential supplies, we provide critical support through strategic partnerships and efficient distribution. Here’s how we make it happen:

1. Building Strong Partnerships

To keep our shelters and rescues stocked, we collaborate with businesses, organizations, and individuals passionate about animal welfare. Through partnerships with groups like RescueBank.org and the Hartz Mt./UPF Resource Train, we receive large-scale donations of food, pet supplies, and other necessities. These relationships allow us to serve both local and national rescue organizations efficiently.

2. Distribution Days: Getting Supplies Where They’re Needed

A key part of our process is organizing Distribution Days at the UPF Resource Center, where supplies are shared with shelters and rescues. Additionally, we coordinate large-scale deliveries, ensuring truckloads of essential resources reach central distribution points across the Midwest. Local animal welfare leaders then arrange direct pick-ups, making it easier for organizations to access what they need.

3. Supporting Small Rescues & Shelters

Many small rescues struggle to secure corporate partnerships or manage large shipments of donations. UPF bridges this gap by offering a structured support system. As members, these organizations gain reliable access to food and supplies, as well as training and community support. This is especially valuable for first-time nonprofit operators who need guidance in running their organizations effectively.

4. Encouraging Businesses to Give Back

Every year, companies discard valuable items like overstocked merchandise, discontinued products, and supplies with damaged packaging. Rather than letting these resources go to waste, UPF helps businesses make meaningful in-kind donations. These contributions dramatically reduce costs for shelters and rescues, allowing them to focus more on caring for animals in need.

Join Us in Making a Difference

UPF thrives because of the generosity of our partners and community members. Whether you’re a business looking to donate supplies or a rescue organization in need of support, we welcome you to join our mission. Together, we can create a stronger, more sustainable support system for animals in need.

Want to get involved? Contact UPF today and be a part of the change!