Midwest Food Bank Mobilizes Disaster Relief Efforts Ahead of Hurricane Helene
As Hurricane Helene bears down on the southeastern United States, Midwest Food Bank is mobilizing its disaster relief teams across its various locations to prepare for the anticipated widespread power outages and water shortages. The nonprofit organization is working closely with other agencies to ensure food and essential supplies are ready for distribution to communities that will be impacted by the storm.
Midwest Food Bank is collaborating with The Salvation Army and other nonprofit partners to deliver emergency supplies in Georgia, Florida, and other areas expected to be hit hardest. The coordinated efforts focus on providing clean water, ready-to-eat meals (MREs), and disaster relief kits.
In Georgia, Midwest Food Bank has already dispatched three semi-trucks filled with water and drinks to ensure that residents have access to clean drinking water as Hurricane Helene approaches. The organization is prepared to send more shipments as needed in the coming days.
In Florida, Midwest Food Bank is coordinating with state officials and local relief agencies to provide MREs, water, and other drinks to regions facing severe displacement and food insecurity due to the storm.
At its Disaster Relief Hub in Morton, Illinois, the organization is preparing food boxes and clean-up kits for families beginning the recovery process. These kits contain critical supplies to help those affected rebuild their lives after the storm’s destruction.
“Midwest Food Bank’s commitment to disaster relief means we are always prepared to respond swiftly in times of crisis,” said Christa Staley, Executive Director. “Our goal is to ease the burden by providing essential supplies like food, water, and clean-up tools, working with our partners to bring relief to those in need.”
Midwest Food Bank is urging the public to support their efforts through financial donations, which allow for a quick and efficient response. Those wishing to contribute can visit the organization’s website or text @MFB to 52014 to donate, with funds going directly toward disaster relief supplies and transportation costs.
Founded in 2003 on a farm in McLean County, Illinois, Midwest Food Bank has grown to become the largest food bank in the U.S., serving 23 states through 10 domestic locations and supporting international efforts in East Africa and Haiti.
For more information on how to support Midwest Food Bank’s disaster relief efforts, visit their website at midwestfoodbank.org.