Mercedes-Benz of Knoxville holds first annual ‘Stuff the Sprinter for Homeless Pets’

November 15th, 2023

Mercedes-Benz of Knoxville is hosting its first annual “Stuff the Sprinter for Homeless Pets” donation drive to collect dog and cat food and other needed supplies for two local animal welfare organizations. The drive, held in partnership with Humane Society, Tennessee Valley and Young-Williams Animal Center, aims to provide essential items to pets in need.

A Sprinter van gets filled up with pet food donations at the 'Stuff the Sprinter for Homeless Pets' Kickoff event on November 11, 2023

Kicking Off the Drive

On November 11, 2023, we welcomed the public to our dealership for a fun kick-off celebration. Adoptable puppies from both shelters were on site and got lots of pets and snuggles, as well as a few pup cups full of whipped cream! Anyone who brought a donation also received a free dog treat courtesy of River Dog Bakery, as well as hot chocolate, coffee, and candy from Mercedes-Benz of Knoxville.



Keep the Donations Coming

Donations will continue to be accepted at our West Knoxville dealership until November 28, 2023. The final day of the drive coincides with Giving Tuesday – the perfect day to deliver a Sprinter full of pet food to our local shelters!

“We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with two fantastic animal welfare organizations and help pets in need,” said Lee Ann Furrow Tolsma, president of Furrow Automotive.

Jeff Bender, general manager of Mercedes-Benz of Knoxville, echoed that sentiment, explaining why the dealership chose to partner with Humane Society, Tennessee Valley and Young-Williams Animal Center. “We’re all animal lovers here at Mercedes-Benz of Knoxville. These organizations are close to our hearts, and we are excited to host an event that will help them fulfill their mission.”

What to Donate

Needed donation items include:

  • Dog food (wet and dry). All brands are welcome but preferred brands include Purina One and Hill’s Science Diet, adult and puppy.
  • Cat food (wet and dry). All brands are welcome but preferred brands include Purina One and Friskies pate, adult and kitten.
  • Clumping cat litter
  • Gently used blankets, towels and bed sheets

“We’re grateful for the Mercedes-Benz team and their initiative in putting together a fun event to support animals in need,” said Janet Testerman, CEO of Young-Williams Animal Center. “The donation of essential items for animals in our care helps make their lives better as we work toward placing them in forever homes.”

“The ‘Stuff the Sprinter for Homeless Pets’ donation drive will truly help our pets living in the shelters waiting for adoption,” said Constance Paras, executive director of Humane Society, Tennessee Valley. “We love working with local businesses collectively to ensure all animals are treated with the compassion and respect they deserve.”

For more information, including alternate drop-off locations, please visit StuffTheSprinter.com.

 

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