First Unitarian Universalist Animal Ministry – First Unitarian Universalist Church of Houston

The First Unitarian Universalist Animal Ministry

Doing our part to work for the animals

1. Fostering Harmonious Coexistence with Wildlife

Facilitate programs and initiatives that promote understanding and cooperation between the Houston community and wildlife, fostering peaceful coexistence in our urban environment.

2. Advocating for Animal Rights

Engage in active advocacy efforts to champion the rights of all animals, whether they are cherished pets or animals in farms, working towards a more compassionate and just treatment for every living being.

3. Combating Pet Homelessness

Implement comprehensive strategies to address and reduce pet homelessness in Houston, focusing on education, responsible pet ownership, and collaborative efforts with local shelters and communities.

To Join the Team, Email info@firstuu.org or click here and select "Join us"

Join us for the 4th Annual Vegan Chili Cook-Off — a flavorful celebration hosted by the First UU Climate Action Team and the UU Animal Ministry of Houston!

Whether you’re a seasoned plant-based pro or a kitchen creative looking to try something new, bring your best vegan chili and compete for fabulous prizes, community bragging rights, and the honor of this year’s winning recipe.

All chili entries must be 100% plant-based — no meat, dairy, eggs, or animal-derived ingredients — keeping the spirit of compassion, sustainability, and delicious innovation at the heart of the event.
Not cooking chili? You’re still an essential part of the feast! This is a potluck-style gathering, and we welcome sides, breads, cornbread, and desserts to round out the table and make the meal complete.

All attendees are invited to sample, enjoy, vote, and help crown our chili champion!

Come share community, artistry, and good food — one simmering bowl at a time.

ProjectWARM Shelter Building
Tuesdsay
December 23rd
1:00 - 3:30 PM

Friends For Life has reached out with an opportunity to make a real difference this winter — and we’d love your help!

ProjectWARM is Friends For Life's annual community effort to build and distribute insulated shelters for free-roaming cats. These simple but lifesaving shelters — made from plastic tubs lined with foam and straw — give outdoor cats a warm, dry place to stay safe during cold and wet weather.

The project is hands-on but easy: cutting foam, gluing it inside plastic bins, and cutting a small entrance. No special skills needed — just willing hands and kind hearts!

We'll construct 8 shelters at First UU, then head to Friends For Life Shelter in the Heights to drop off the shelters and take a guided tour of the facility!

(Ages 10 and up)

Pet Loss Support Group

The Pet Loss Support Group is held on a monthly basis, and new participants are always welcome. The meetings are held on the first Wednesday at 8:00 PM EST (7:00 PM Central). In order to gain access, just email Rev. Elleven and he will send you the link and password (or you can find it on the UUAM Facebook page). Visit Rev. Russell's Animal Chaplain page.

Pet Emergency Preparedness Workshop Video

On Saturday July 20th, over 50 people came to First UU Church to learn about how to prepare for emergencies with their pets. Animal Enforcement Officer, Michelle Hurtado, gave us many tips on what we can do now to help keep our pets safe during emergencies. Check out the video here and don't forget to subscribe the the First UUAM YouTube channel: