Full Bellies,
Wagging Tails

At Sydney’s Friends, we believe every pet deserves a full belly and a happy home. By working hand in hand with other organizations and nonprofits, we help fill in the gap where resources fall short. Whether it’s supporting local shelters in tough times, helping homebound seniors care for their furry companions, or responding to natural disasters, we’re there to provide pet food, essential supplies, and emergency assistance.

A Mission Inspired by Love

Sydney’s Friends was founded by Melanie Wilder in honor of Sydney, her shelter rescue, whose unconditional love and devotion inspired a passion for helping pets and their people. From providing pet food to Meals on Wheels, to organizing large-scale disaster relief efforts, Melanie has dedicated her life to being a voice for animals in need. Her journey in North Carolina began in 2018, after Hurricane Florence, when a simple effort to deliver pet supplies turned into a community-driven movement of compassion and action.

What We Do

At Sydney’s Friends, we are dedicated to ensuring that pets and the people who love them have the resources they need to thrive. Rooted in kindness and a shared love for animals, we provide essential pet food and supplies to families, shelters and communities in need.

Pet Food

No pet should go hungry. We provide food to families in need so pets can stay healthy and well-fed.

Essential Supplies

We offer the necessities (collars, leashes, beds, shelters, etc.) to keep pets safe and comfortable.

Disaster Relief

When emergencies strike, we step in to provide immediate assistance to pets and their owners.

What We Believe

We believe in community and collaboration and the hope that through kindness and collective action, we can make a real difference in the lives of pets and the people who love them, one paw (or four) at a time.

How You Can Help

Donate

Your contribution provides food, shelter, and supplies to pets in need. Whether it’s a one-time gift, a monthly donation, or an item from our Amazon wishlist, every dollar makes a difference. Donating ensures that we can continue our mission of providing food, supplies and hope to pets and people who need it most.

Share

Kindness grows when we share it! Follow us on social media, tell your friends or organize a small awareness campaign in your community. The more people who know about Sydney’s Friends, the bigger impact we can make together.

Get Involved

Your involvement turns compassion into action, making a real difference in the lives of pets and the people who love them.

“I’m so thankful for the pet food! It really helps me out financially, especially since I am living on social security.”

Peggy M.

Meals on Wheels

“It’s so nice to know there are people out there who care about seniors and our pets.”

Aida G. and Tig

Meals on Wheels

“My Mattie is so important to me. I am incredibly grateful for the pet food from Sydney’s Friends!”

Avis T. and Mattie

Meals on Wheels

“Mel is a true asset to our community and many others! We have worked together through disaster relief. Also, via efforts for pets locally. She brings a positive energy to whatever she is a part of.”

Aaron Burgin

Founder Wood For Warriors, Co-founder Carolina Relief

“What Melanie’s band of angels brought in after the catastrophic flooding was greater than anyone could have ever imagined. They brought supplies, loving hearts, and helping hands. They were truly a rainbow after our rain and with a grateful heart we will never forget them and those in their community!”

Tammy Kilburn

Kentucky River Regional Animal Shelter

How We Have Helped

Sydney’s Story

Sydney’s Friends is named in honor of Sydney, a shelter dog who changed Melanie’s life forever. Their unbreakable bond was built on trust, healing, and unconditional love. Sydney’s story serves as a reminder of the countless animals waiting for their chance to be loved and cared for.

Providing Love and Supplies to Pets in Need

“I met Melanie five years ago during a challenging trapping situation, and it was immediately clear that she was someone truly special. From the very beginning, her passion, dedication, and compassion for animals stood out in the most remarkable way.
 
Melanie always goes the extra mile—no matter how tough the situation—without ever asking for anything in return. Her unconditional love for animals is genuinely unrivaled.
 
A few years ago, Melanie became the provider of pet food for Meals on Wheels in her community—a beautiful initiative aimed at feeding dogs and cats in need. It’s just another example of her heart in action, and a reflection of her commitment to ensuring no animal goes without.
 
Over the past five years, it’s been an absolute pleasure knowing and working alongside Melanie. Her selflessness, reliability, and heart have made her an incredible asset to our team and to the entire community. We are so excited to support her efforts in any way we can, and we’re proud to stand beside her in this important endeavor.”
 
Michelle Wilson, founder of EPIC Animal Recovery

Be a Friend. Make a Difference.

Sydney’s Friends is more than a non-profit – it’s a community built on love, compassion, and a shared belief that no pet should ever go without. With your help, we can continue honoring Sydney’s legacy. Thank you for helping us make that vision a reality.