Weis Markets recently announced that its stores and associates raised $177,408 for 127 local pet shelters and rescue organizations in seven states during its 17th annual Paws for Pets program.

The funds were generated through in-store customer donations in May and a contribution by the Sunbury-based company.

Since its inception in 2009, the of Weis Markets’ program has donated over $3 million to local rescues and animal shelters.

During the campaign, customers had the opportunity to round up their grocery purchases to the next whole dollar or make donations of $1, $3 or $5 at checkout. The program stays local to each store’s community, ensuring donations directly benefit nearby shelters and rescue organizations.

Leading the fundraising efforts, the Weis Markets store in Bethlehem generated $1,792 in donations for Peaceable Kingdom Animal Rescue in Whitehall.