After 11 years of dedicated service to animals and their caregivers, Rockbridge Animal Alliance (RAA) dissolved its operations on Sept. 30. The nonprofit cited limited funding and resources as reasons for the closure.
“From the start, our mission has been to improve the lives of animals in Rockbridge County and to support the people who love them,” said Maurine Houser, RAA board chair. “We are incredibly proud of the difference this organization has made, providing food, spay/neuter services, and assistance to countless pets and families. While it is bittersweet to close, we are grateful to the community for their support.”
For the past several years, RAA has partnered with the Rockbridge Area Relief Association to host regular pet food pantries, allowing local families to pick up dog and cat food alongside their household groceries. This program complements RARA’s services by supporting the same families who already visit for groceries and emergency assistance, helping reduce financial strain and keeping households, and their pets, healthy.
Beginning in 2026, RARA will assume full operation of the pet food pantry, piloting the program with the remaining pet food inventory and restricted donations from RAA. The pantry will provide nonprescription cat and dog food once per month at RARA’s Lexington location and will be open to any household in the Rockbridge area needing help feeding their pets.
“RARA’s mission has always been about more than meeting basic needs. It’s about enriching lives,” said Shadrey Sands, RARA Neighborhood Grocery manager. “By including the pet food pantry among our services, we’re helping families care for every member of their household, including their pets.”
RAA volunteers and board members have shared their time and expertise to help RARA staff prepare for the transition and ensure a smooth launch in 2026. The program will continue under RARA using the remaining RAA food and funds, with future operations dependent on available resources.
For updates about the pet food pantry pilot and other RARA programs, visit www. raralex.org. RARA will begin accepting pet food donations in 2026.
