As 2023 hurricane season begins, Treasure Coast Food Bank prepares
Organization provides more than meals in emergency situations
FORT PIERCE, Fla. – May 31, 2023 – When Hurricane Ian struck the Florida Coast in September 2022, the Treasure Coast Food Bank team sprang into action helping those who were hardest hit and in need of help. Their response plan delivering emergency food, water and other critical supplies, and communications efforts garnered praise from government officials and even a national communications award, but it also gave them practical experience to improve efforts as the 2023 hurricane season fast approaches.
“Treasure Coast Food Bank plays a vital role in responding to emergencies throughout our region, and it’s essential the food bank provides food and resources to the community before, during and after a hurricane or other natural disaster,” said President and CEO Judith Cruz. “We work closely with the Florida Division of Emergency Management and local emergency management operations centers to effectively respond to crisis situations, and we are committed to continuously serving our community regardless of the situation.”
Treasure Coast Food Bank responds to emergencies such as floods, tornadoes and hurricanes throughout the region as part of the Federal Emergency Support Function (ESF) #6, including Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee and St. Lucie counties. Being a federal emergency support organization, Treasure Coast Food Bank’s assistance goes beyond simply providing food and water. In the wake of a disaster, it provides mass care, emergency assistance, temporary housing and human services.
Treasure Coast Food Bank is equipped to provide ready-to-eat meals, water, ice, shelter and other supplies to Floridians who need assistance at locations throughout the Treasure Coast. The food bank can send millions of pounds of food, supplies and other services to neighbors in affected communities after a natural disaster.
Just as they did when Hurricane Ian approached Florida’s coast, Treasure Coast Food Bank has three goals in mind when a storm warning comes through: reassure the community that emergency food and water would be available; raise funds and recruit volunteers; and build confidence among community leaders, donors and government officials in the food bank’s efforts. Leaders also ensure communications are robust before and after a storm.
“But it shouldn’t be just organizations that are preparing for the hurricane season, individual households should be preparing as well,” Cruz said.
All Floridians should make a plan and gather supplies early and come up with an evacuation plan should it become necessary. Essential hurricane supplies include non-perishable food, water, medication, batteries, flashlights, a first aid kit, important documents and pet care items. Check on insurance coverage as most homeowners and rental insurance policies don’t usually automatically include flood coverage. It’s also a good idea to inventory your belongings and figure out a plan on how you will function without electricity for days or weeks. For a full checklist of supplies and consideration, visit stophunger.org/hurricaneprep.
For more information about resources at Treasure Coast Food Bank, visit stophunger.org or call 772-489-3034.
