To help those experiencing disadvantage in our local communities, the Petstock Foundation is holding its annual Hometown Heroes initiative this month.

The goal is to raise $600,000 for partner charities who work to assist people facing some form of disadvantage.

Everyone is encouraged to lend their support and donate at the local Petstock store in Thompson Avenue, Cowes or online.

Petstock store teams have selected local charities special to them to support throughout the month. Twenty seven charities nationwide will benefit, and in Victoria 100 per cent of proceeds will be donated to Pets of The Homeless.

Funds raised will directly benefit communities by allowing charities to provide essential services like vet care for pets, support for people leaving unsafe domestic situations without abandoning their pets, and mental health support through assistance animals.

Jessica Curtis, Head of Petstock Foundation, says: "Our mission is to empower a better future for pets and people. By highlighting local charities, we strengthen their capacity to support those experiencing disadvantage.

"We encourage Australians to donate, whether by rounding up purchases in-store or donating online. Every contribution is gratefully received by our charity partners."

Pets of The Homeless Founder and CEO, Yvonne Hong, says, "With fewer volunteers, rising costs, and increased demand, our work is often only possible thanks to donations. Contributions make a huge difference to those experiencing financial hardship, and we are grateful to the Petstock Foundation for supporting small community charities like ours."

The Hometown Heroes campaign runs until September 30.