Grace Community Center, on the border of North Fort Myers and Cape Coral, will hold a Pet Expo to benefit its pet food pantry today from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Pets and pet lovers have also suffered in this economy, said center spokespersons.

Much like a food bank for people, the pet food bank helps numerous pet owners in the community help feed their animals.

“In 2011, we gave out over 15,000 pounds of dog and cat food,” said Carol Musselman, director of operations for the Grace Community Center and Church.

“We look for about four main fund raisers a year to raise money for the community center. We know everyone loves their pets, so it is the right thing to do. Our pet food ministry is called Feed The Pack and provides pet food to our neighbors in need.”

It takes place when they do their regular food pantry outreach, the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month and the third Saturday of the month.

“We have five local rescue shelters that will offer pet adoption at the event,” she said.

Those include Lee County Domestic Animal Services, Forever Pets, Brooke’s Legacy Animal Rescue, Joey’s Greyhound Friends and Helping Paws Animal Sanctuary.

“At the event there will be food, bounce houses and face painting for kids, a variety of pet vendors and crafters as well,” said Musselman.

There will also be a multitude of silent auction items. Winners do not have to be present when the winners are announced.

There will be five pet contests – most unusual pet, cutest pet, owner/pet look-alike contest, most talented pet and a costume contest.

“You can enter as many contests as you’d like by donation. Prizes will be awarded to the first second and third winner in each category.”

Grace Community Center is a hub for the community, providing a path so that its neighbors can live lives of freedom and dignity.

For more information on Grace Community Center, call 574-7161 or visit egracecenter.org .