Even before a disaster, Houston Food Bank is preparing for disaster relief.
Even before a disaster, Houston Food Bank is prepared for disaster relief.
Learn how you can make a positive impact on disaster before it happens.
The Houston metro area is frequently impacted by natural disasters such as flooding, hurricanes, and storms. When disaster strikes, Houston Food Bank mobilizes to provide essential relief to affected communities. We rely on corporate and public donations, as well as the tireless efforts of our volunteers, to support our neighbors in need. The data below is based on Houston Food Bank’s efforts during disaster relief support because of Hurricane Beryl.
As a disaster relief organization, Houston Food Bank is ready to assist our neighbors experiencing the effects of an event from extreme cold to flooding and hurricanes. When any part of our 18 county service area is affected, we mobilize. Houston Food Bank’s Volunteer Services department leads volunteers in building dedicated disaster boxes that will be distributed throughout our partners in the affected area, and our warehouse and transportation departments work quickly to deliver these boxes along with necessary food and supplies to the community. With the assistance of local, state, and federal government agencies through our Government Relations department, Houston Food Bank is ready to provide resources and assistance to our neighbors and communities during a disaster and in the aftermath.
Thanks to our Hurricane Beryl sponsors
Discover the journey of fresh produce donations from Houston Food Bank to over 1 million neighbors across our 18 county service area. In this video, we unravel the intricate process, showcasing the indispensable roles of various teams within Houston Food Bank such as Procurement, Operations, Volunteers and Partners. Together, we make a significant impact, providing food for better lives.
Behind the scenes
Houston Food Bank is committed to supporting our community before, during, and after a disaster. Here’s a look at what happens behind the scenes.
ASSESSMENT AND PLANNING
Our team is always prepared for potential disasters. We stock disaster boxes and supplies, and we have a detailed plan in place. Before a disaster strikes, we procure necessary donation items and solicit funds for additional purchases.
PARTNERING WITH GOVERNMENT
When disaster strikes, we work closely with local, state, and federal officials to assess the immediate needs of our community. Our Government Relations team collaborates with elected officials to secure essential supplies and establish additional distribution points.
SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
Our Procurement team actively seeks donations of food, supplies, and other essential items to support disaster relief efforts. We distribute these items as quickly as possible through our network of over 1,600 partners in 18 counties.
COMMUNICATE
Effective communication is essential to our disaster response. We work closely with the media to inform the public about our efforts, share information about needed supplies, and encourage volunteer support. We also provide updates to those affected by the disaster to help them access the assistance they need.
By working together with our partners and the community, we can effectively respond to disasters and help our neighbors recover.
Working families with limited assets who don’t qualify for state or federal assistance and who are unable to afford basic needs are among those who struggle to recover from a disaster.
Working families with limited assets who don’t qualify for state or federal assistance and who are unable to afford basic needs are among those who struggle to recover from a disaster.
Disasters impact neighbors
Brittany Zeier lives in Southwest Houston with her 3 young girls. The May 2024 disaster devastated her family, leaving them without electricity for a week and spoiling her refrigerated groceries. Though she works at a hotel, all rooms were occupied, and she was unable to find an air-conditioned space for her family. Compounding the food loss, stress, and physical discomfort, the derecho stripped her of her ability to work. As of May 2024, Zeier was behind on rent.
In the wake of the disaster, Zeier and her three girls attended the Houston Food Bank Community Assistance Program’s event intended to help community members apply for replacement SNAP benefits. This event was her first attempt at reaching out for help from any agency, and she hopes to replenish her lost groceries and find resources for rental assistance. Zeier appreciates the food donations that come from the Houston Food Bank and hopes the food bank will continue their distribution efforts. The Houston Food Bank was able to help Zeier submit an application for replacement SNAP and redirect her to resources for rental assistance.
