PELHAM — A generous Pelham woman has opened up her pantry to all the hungry pets in the community.

“If you need it, take it…if you have it, give it,” reads a post on the official Facebook page of the Pelham Pet Pantry, which is based in the home of Sheila Montgomery.

Montgomery, who has volunteered at numerous (human) food pantries, was inspired to start the program after taking in several rescue dogs and cats. She witnessed the plight of overcrowded animals at shelters and could not bear the thought of someone having to give up a family pet just because they couldn’t afford food.

“It’s just a shelf at my house,” Montgomery said. “There are a lot of people that need this service. If you or I got sick or lost our job, there would be resources to help us.”

Anyone in need of pet food or wishing to donate may contact Montgomery to arrange pickup or drop-off at her home. She also has a drop-off box available at the Pelham Starbucks on Cahaba Valley Road. The only requirement is that all donations are unopened packages of pet food. Monetary donations are currently not accepted.

“Life happens to us all,” Montgomery said. “We need to figure out a way to stop dogs coming out of homes and going to shelters. I’m not a vet, but this is something I can do.”

She said the Pelham Pet Pantry is all about people helping people. She also expressed appreciation for the support she has received from the community.

“Shelby County’s always been a hometown kind of place. The community itself has been amazing,” Montgomery said.

Montgomery may be reached at 205-965-3883, via email at sheilamontgomery41@gmail.com or via Facebook instant message.