One, Two, Three — Local Donors Power HBSPCA Fleet Expansion

Hamilton, ON — When the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA (HBSPCA) issued an urgent public call for a dedicated vehicle to support its growing Pet Pantry program, the community answered with extraordinary speed and generosity. In less than 24 hours, two local donors stepped forward — resulting in three high-roof Ford Transit vans that will soon be on the road, feeding more pets and supporting more families across Hamilton and Burlington.

These new vehicles will allow the HBSPCA to reduce delivery wait times from weeks to days, reach more vulnerable pet owners, and expand service to families who face significant barriers such as lack of transportation or mobility challenges. With custom retrofitting requirements, the HBSPCA expects all three vans to be fully equipped and operational within the next 30 days.

The O’Brien Family Leads with a Heartfelt Contribution

When the HBSPCA’s urgent call for help went public, Dr. Liz O’Brien was one of the very first to respond. Moved by the thought of pets going hungry and families struggling to care for their beloved companions, Dr. Liz reached out immediately — making it possible to secure a van through her family fund.

“Forty years of practicing veterinary medicine has shown me first-hand the undeniable importance of the human/animal bond” says Dr. Liz. “Access to quality pet food is the first step to keeping pets in their homes with the families that love them and the people the pets love. It is a privilege to support the HBSPCA’s Pet Pantry.”

The O’Brien family’s gift not only adds vital capacity to the Pet Pantry fleet but also serves as a powerful reminder of how the compassion of individuals can create lasting change for both pets and the people who love them.

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Driving Force Doubles Down to Transform Delivery Capacity

Almost simultaneously, Driving Force Burlington, led by Regional Manager Bryce Taylor, stepped in to donate one high-roof Ford Transit van outright and worked closely with the HBSPCA to secure a second vehicle.

When Bryce saw the HBSPCA’s call for help, he immediately recognized an opportunity to make a meaningful difference — not only for pets in need but for the families who love and depend on them.

This collaboration reflects Driving Force’s strong commitment to supporting local communities through swift action and lasting partnerships.

“At Driving Force, we believe in creating meaningful change in the communities we’re part of. And when that change touches the lives of pets and the people who love them, it resonates even more deeply,” says Taylor. “As passionate pet lovers ourselves, we’re honoured to support the HBSPCA in extending their incredible work to more families who need it.”

The two vehicles provided through Driving Force’s generosity will dramatically increase the HBSPCA’s delivery capacity, ensuring that critical resources reach pets and families faster and more efficiently than ever before.

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A Growing Impact for Pets and Families

Last year alone, the HBSPCA Pet Pantry delivered over 931,000 meals directly to local homes and provided nearly 2 million meals through community partners. Demand for support continues to rise as more families face financial hardship and barriers to accessing essential pet care.

With three new vehicles coming online, the HBSPCA will be better equipped to:

• Increase the number of pet food deliveries across the region

• Shorten wait times for families in urgent need

• Expand service to isolated seniors and individuals without transportation

• Help keep families together by ensuring no pet goes hungry

“We asked for one van — and thanks to the O’Brien Family Foundation and Driving Force, we’ll soon have three,” says John Gerrard, CEO of the HBSPCA. “Their generosity is nothing short of remarkable. These vans will keep pets fed, families together, and hope alive for so many in our community.”

How to Help

The HBSPCA continues to seek community support to sustain and grow its vital programs. For businesses interested in making a difference through corporate partnerships visit our website to get started!

About the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA

The Hamilton/Burlington SPCA is always Pet First. Since 1887, we have advanced the humane treatment of animals through innovative education, services, and partnerships. Our programs support over one million animal interactions annually, providing vital resources that ensure the well-being of animals and the families who care for them. We take care of animals because they take care of us.