The Hawaiian Humane Society is requesting donations of unopened, unexpired, dry pet food as part of its program to help pet owners who cannot afford to feed their animals.

"Our first priority is to help those on any form of government assistance, including unemployment, and the homeless," says Natalie Lukashevsky, community outreach coordinator for the group. "We want to help pets and their families stay together."

Since its inception, the Pet Food Bank has distributed free food for nearly 900 animals, the Humane Society said.

Donations of food for dogs and cats can be dropped off at PETCO stores in Kaneohe, Kapolei or Pearl City, or at the Humane Society, 2700 Waialae Ave.

The group is asking for puppy, dog, kitten and cat food, and for dog biscuits.

Donations are accepted 24 hours a day and bags should have no rips or tears, officials said.

For more information, contact Natalie Lukashevsky at 356-2217 or nlukashevsky@hawaiianhumane.org.