How Midwest Food Bank Responded to Domestic and International Needs

While this year brought no major hurricanes to US waters, Midwest Food Bank Morton continued steady disaster relief work. In partnership with the Salvation Army, more than 4,000 disaster relief food boxes were sent to Alaska, Arizona, and, most recently, Arlington, Texas. Flooding has affected many parts of the country, and we maintains at least two truckloads of supplies ready within 24 hours when requests arise.

The Salvation Army has also used Midwest Food Bank's food boxes to serve humanitarian needs throughout the Midwest and Southeast. Each box contains enough shelf-stable, nutrient-rich food to support a household of four for several days.

Midwest Food Bank also supported an international response to Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica. Through its partnership with Convoy of Hope, we provided a sea container of Tender Mercies. These dry blends of rice, beans, vegetable protein, and seasoning can be prepared with hot water and have an extended shelf-life. More than 200,000 meals were delivered to support recovery efforts.

Many volunteers help pack and prepare these meals so they can be shipped quickly when needs arise. Midwest Food Bank is grateful for each person who offers time and care in the face of urgent challenges.