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Frequently Asked Questions

Donations & Collection

Can I drop off donations at any Benson’s Pet Center?

Yes! All Benson’s stores have donation bins near the front entrance. Drop off items anytime during business hours: Monday–Saturday 9am–7pm and Sunday 10am–6pm.

What can I donate?

New or gently used pet supplies—like food, litter, toys, beds, bowls, and leashes. Please avoid items that are damaged or unsafe.

You can also bring your clean bottle returnables in bags to our Wilton (Exit 15), Clifton Park, or Colonie locations. The deposits go directly to Benson’s CARES.

Can I donate money instead?

Absolutely! You can donate online via PayPal, round up your in-store purchase, or support a specific program.

How does the bottle drive work?

Grab a pre-stickered Clynk bag at any Benson’s location, fill it with returnables, and drop it at a participating Hannaford. You can also bring your clean returnables in bags to our Wilton (Exit 15), Clifton Park, or Colonie locations.

The deposits go directly to Benson’s CARES.

The Cat Room & Adoptions

Can I visit the Cat Room in person?

You can view the cats through the windows during store hours. To meet them in person, you must first submit an approved adoption application and schedule an appointment.

How do I adopt a cat?
  1. Submit an adoption application
  2. If approved, we’ll contact you to schedule a visit
  3. If there’s a match, you can take your cat home that day!

Adoption fee: $125 (non-refundable, tax-deductible donation)

What’s included with adoption?

You’ll receive a starter kit with food, litter, treats, and more—just pay sales tax.

Can I sponsor a specific cat or donate to the Cat Room?

Yes! You can donate in honor of a cat or contribute toward the Cat Room’s care. Sponsorship options are in development.

What happens if I can’t keep the cat?

Per the adoption contract, the cat must be returned to Benson’s CARES. We never want any of our cats to become homeless again.

Pet Food Pantry

Where can I pick up supplies?

Pickups are by appointment only at our Clifton Park location.

What do you provide?

Food, litter, and basic supplies for cats and dogs—based on availability.

Who qualifies for help?

We serve rescues, fosters, and individuals facing hardship. If you need help caring for your pet, we’re here.

Other Questions

Where does my donation go?

100% of your donation supports our programs. We distribute 5,500–6,000 lbs of pet food each month and help over 100 local rescues and families.

Is Benson’s CARES a nonprofit?

Yes, Benson’s CARES is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

Do you have any other
unanswered questions?


Email Us

Have a question or want to learn more about how you can help? We’d love to hear from you.


Call Us

Monday through Friday
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM