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With the economy still on shaky ground, times are tough — particularly for pet owners. Shelters are overflowing, animals have been abandoned and the health of some pets has been neglected. Well, the ASPCA wants to help. Starting tomorrow, the organization is launching a "Cat Assistance Program" aimed at struggling kitty owners.

ASPCA volunteers will be stationed at shelters around the country, distributing 20,000 free product coupons for Fresh Step litter and 9Lives cat food, as well as hundreds of cat assistance kits containing a litter pan, litter scoop and cat toys, all for qualifying cat owners. For a complete schedule of distribution days and locations, click here.

What can you do to help? Throughout November, purchase specially marked packages of Fresh Step litter, and a portion of the proceeds will go to support the ASPCA's initiative. Look for the Paw Points code on the side panel, go to mypawpoints.com and enter the code. For each purchase entered, Fresh Step will donate 50 cents to the ASPCA, up to $400,000.

Read about more charitable initiatives on PEOPLEPets.com:
Pets Step Up for National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week
Adopt Me! Major Wants to Be Your No. 1