Bank Independent has announced its first annual Shelter Share drive to benefit animal shelters in Northwest Alabama.

Beginning Monday, February 24, all 27 Bank Independent locations will serve as collection points for donations of pet food and supplies designated for local animal shelters.

“The tremendous generosity of our customers, friends and neighbors during our Joy of Sharing toy drives these past three years inspired us to expand our efforts to address other needs we’ve identified in our community,” Franklin County Area President Larry Archer said.

“Bank Independent team members who have volunteered at local shelters brought this need to our attention.”

At the request of these local shelters, Bank Independent is accepting donations of pet food, kitty litter, paper towels, nursing bottles, liquid bleach, baby wipes, first aid items, triple antibiotic ointment, blankets, towels or gift cards to pet supply stores.

Every donation collected through March 14 will be delivered to one of the following shelters: Athens Limestone County Animal Shelter, Colbert County Animal Control Association, Decatur Animal Services, Morgan County Animal Shelter and Florence Lauderdale Animal Shelter.

Archer explained that donations dropped off at the Bank’s Russellville and Red Bay locations will be distributed to the Colbert County Animal Control Association.

“We also want to share the importance of spaying and neutering pets in order to control the pet population,” Archer added.

“By spreading this message and collecting donations through the Shelter Share program, we hope to assist local shelters with their incredible efforts.”