TOPEKA (KSNT) — The community celebrated First Friday with Helping Hands Humane Society, which welcomed Topekans for an evening of food, music and support for a local cause Friday, May 1.
Dozens of cars filled the shelter’s parking lot as attendees stopped by to enjoy a variety of local food truck vendors, along with live music. The event not only gave small businesses a chance to connect with the community but also supported the shelter’s mission.
Organizers say 20% of all food truck proceeds were donated to Helping Hands Humane Society, which provides care and resources for animals in need.
Helping Hands Humane Society overflowing with pets
Emi Griess, communications coordinator for the shelter, says the partnership with food trucks began during a challenging time.
“Amazingly, for us, our food truck friends… They said, ‘We’d love to partner together.’ They think it would benefit them to have this good spot on 21st street, but they know it would benefit us because they would be donating something back,” said Griess.
Griess also said the shelter stayed open later than usual during the event, allowing attendees to meet and adopt animals. The combination of food, community and pet adoption made the shelter a unique First Friday stop — where Topekans could support local businesses while helping animals find homes.
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