An Arcata retiree is making a significant impact on the lives of homeless dogs by preparing fresh, nutritious meals for them. Samaya Jones dedicates her time twice a week to cooking for these animals, utilizing scraps of meat and donated vegetables. Inspired by a chance encounter with a man and his two wet dogs, Jones saw the need for better nourishment among canines living on the streets.
In her kitchen, she simmers meat scraps, including turkey and fish, alongside fruits, vegetables, and rice in a large pot. “My last batch, I was fortunate to score some beef scraps,” Jones explained. Each week, she produces several dozen containers of food, which are then distributed to encampments in Eureka and Arcata through the assistance of the Humboldt Area Center for Harm Reduction.
Jones’s journey began on a rainy Saturday morning when she spotted the man with his dogs at the Arcata Plaza. After offering him soup and a towel, she set out to find jackets for the dogs. Her search led her to various encampments, where she witnessed the struggles of both the homeless and their pets. “I decided that these dogs need a decent meal once a week,” she said.
With a background in nutritional science, Jones emphasizes the importance of fresh food over highly processed kibble. “Dried dog food is highly processed, and in order to make that kibble, it’s baked at like 400 degrees for extended periods of time,” she noted. Her experience as a private chef for individuals with restricted diets has informed her approach, allowing her to create meals that meet canine nutritional needs while avoiding harmful ingredients like onions.
Jones began preparing fresh meals for her own dog years ago, despite her vegetarian lifestyle. “I had to cook organ meats for her. It was awful because I’m a vegetarian,” she shared. Now, her freezer and fridge are filled with food for dozens of dogs, and she spends hours each week preparing the meals, which recently included processing leftover pumpkins from Halloween.
While Jones has a deep empathy for homeless individuals, she often finds herself focusing on the needs of their pets. “What about the dogs?” she asks, highlighting the plight of animals who cannot comprehend their difficult circumstances. Living on a limited income from Social Security, she relates to those facing precarious situations. “They didn’t choose that life, and they can’t understand why they’re cold and wet and hungry,” she said.
To continue her efforts, Jones is seeking assistance with food donations, particularly protein sources, as many local stores and farms have established donation systems. She encourages donations of meat that may no longer be suitable for human consumption and vegetables that are past their prime. Additionally, she is looking for takeout containers and kitchen space to aid in her cooking endeavors.
Individuals interested in supporting Jones’s mission can reach her at [email protected]. For further inquiries, Sage Alexander can be contacted at 707-441-0504.
