Food Bank Sees Largest Disaster Response to Date
There was an immediate call to action after Hurricane Ida. On September 11, 2021, the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank experienced the largest disaster response to date. The need to serve the community was at an all-time high at the Food Bank. In addition to regular operations, the Food Bank had to provide aid for the community quickly.
The Food Bank’s monthly Senior Grocery Program started the day at 6:30 am, with 25 volunteers distributing boxes to 173 pre-qualified seniors in need. The program helps improve the life of limited income seniors by providing shelf-stable quality food as well as produce and frozen meat. Volunteers served these boxes at the Food Bank to combat the increasing number of food insecure seniors, especially after the recent impact of Hurricane Ida.
The Food Bank faced an urgent need for volunteers to sort and pack boxes. By 8 am, the response kicked off with 92 pre-registered volunteers. Additionally, we added a special afternoon shift that hosted 54 volunteers. Through their donated time, the morning and afternoon volunteers were able to build over 6,300 boxes. The 20-pound disaster boxes contained canned goods and nonperishables which will be distributed to those in need.
Throughout the day, the Food Bank’s transportation team made six deliveries. The disaster delivery demands were met outside of East Baton Rouge Parish, with a delivery in Ascension Parish and a delivery in St. Helena Parish. The Food Bank would like to thank those who have answered our call to fight hunger.
If you would like to donate or work with us, email info@brfoodbank.org or call 225-359-9940.
Donor Match Opportunity in September
