The devastation from Hurricane Helene has been difficult to watch from Central Florida, as our region was minimally impacted by the storm.
As a member of the Feeding Florida and Feeding America networks, Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida is often called upon to help respond in the wake of a natural disaster, such as a hurricane.
Beginning Saturday, September 28, Second Harvest began mobilizing support that has continued throughout the week, including 30,000 Meals Ready to Eat (MREs) and 10,000 disaster relief packs shipped to sister food banks in Tampa Bay, Florida’s Big Bend region and southern Georgia to support hunger relief efforts in affected communities.
Earlier this summer, Second Harvest began storing food and water for disaster relief efforts, including disaster relief packs provided by Abbott. The packs are designed to meet a family’s immediate nutritional needs for three days and does not require warming or refrigeration. The packs contain Abbott nutrition products, such as nutritional bars, Ensure and PediaSure nutrition drinks for adults and children, and Pedialyte rehydration solutions.
At this time, Second Harvest is not collecting food or funds for disaster relief efforts. To support hunger relief efforts in Florida, connect with Feeding Tampa Bay or Second Harvest of the Big Bend. Donations to Feeding America will also be used in the areas of greatest need.
Volunteers are always needed to help sort and pack food donations in the warehouse. To learn more about volunteer opportunities for groups or individuals, visit www.feedhopenow.org/volunteer.
