Pgh Lesbian Correspondents

Saturday’s sale and distribution turned out differently than I thought.

Backyardsale Outcomes

The solid news is that we had eight rescues and three colony caretakers participate in the distribution of free pet stuff. Everyone was gracious about sharing and helping each other load up on towels, blankets, collars, bed, etc. One rescuer volunteered for two hours – a huge help.

We gave away nearly 30 pet beds, hundreds of pet bed covers, dozens of towels and sheets, scores of blankets, leashes, bowls, toys, carriers, and more.

We were also able to immediately respond to a crisis situation in Indiana County by sending dozens of disposable and sanitizable bowls along with a ginormous number of towels and sheets. 19 cats were taken into rescue. They all survived.

What about the actual yard sale?

The rescuers loved shopping. I wanted them to feel good and valued. I would like to have things for them in the future. Things to make them feel good about themselves, to remind them of their value beyond rescuing. And that they deserve a life outside of rescue. That we are here to embrace our whole lives.

The other shoppers were awesome. But I think it would be better to do pet/animal themed items only. They add whimsy without feeling cluttered. This ended up feeling too busy. I wanted to meet the other rescuers a lot more than I wanted to haul stuff around. And I loved getting to meet some new neighbors. This event is about 1) helping rescuers and caretakers and 2) socializing to build bonds and 3) celebrating animals, pets, and nature.

That’s just my opinion. I could be completely wrong. I need some sleep.

The other thing a project like this needs is a committee and committed volunteers. In this unique case, our community is geographic, but also affinity based around animal welfare. I’m going to ask the #PghCatFolx to make a commitment next year.           

Now what?

The Free Pet Stuff Store will continue accepting donations of pet supplies only at our drop-off spots.

The Dr. John P. Ruffing VMD Pet Food Pantry also accepts donations of cat and dog food along with related items.

Drop-off spots are:

1213 W North Avenue Manchester 15233 some steps

1440 Faulsey Way Manchester 15233 backyard address

Look for the bins

Random thoughts

• The set of 3 mugs around the Who Shot JR? theme was hilarious. And worth a wee bit on Ebay.
• Is there anything more badass cat folx than taking your 16 yo foster cat to the vet in a Uhaul, then having her ride along to Goodwill, before returning the truck?
• The HeeHaw mug did not sell so it is the official pen mug for the pantries. Done and done.
• Cat food, cat litter, and paper/disposable plates and bowls are in high demand.

I’m glad I had the experience of helping organize a yard sale. It gave me lots of feelings and thoughts about consumption culture, about our attachments to things, and how both evolved through the 20th century.

I’m much more comfortable with the sharing economy. Let’s keep unused stuff circulating locally. Let’s not assign financial priorities to people’s needs. Let’s give without hurting anyone. Let’s be generous with all of our resources.

If you have a question, reach out folx@pghlgbtq.org. If you need something specific, ask. If you have something unusual to share, ask.