General Questions- Helping a New Shelter

As many DG's know, we have been involved with a couple of dog rescue organizations (Doberman and German Shorthair Pointer). Yesterday, I had occasion to visit and evaluate a dog at a new rural shelter run by the town's Animal Control Officer. She is paying out of pocket for almost 20 dogs vet care and food, as well as at least 10 cats vet care, along with some of their food as well. The facility is spotless; the animals are happy and healthy, and she has been doing this for about four years.
This nice lady had a couple questions that have me stumped....she is trying to obtain 501 (3)c non-profit status.
Does anyone know of any programs out there for private shelters to help with food and vet bills....such as coupons, bulk programs, ect.?? She would also like to have some T-shirts printed up cheaply. She is really just getting started and beginning to get the word out that she's there and performing this important service to her community. If anyone has any ideas, please let me know. This lady and her husband do have some volunteers, but as I have said, its pretty rural up here, and I don't know to how to find this kind of information. Thanks in advance!! Les and Frankay