The Food Basket Plans Emergency Assistance

Overnight tracks of Tropical Storm Hilda have shown drastically decreased power and speed, but The Food Basket, Hawai’i Island’s Food Bank is continuing its preparations should effects of the storm impact the Big Island.

The Food Basket, a 501(c) non-profit, is the only food bank on the Big Island. During times of crisis caused by weather events and natural disasters, The Food Bank provides emergency help to anyone in need.

As communities across the Big Island prepare for rainfall and potential winds, The Food Basket has deployed both its Hilo and Kona teams to remain on alert should the need to assist in the event of disaster recovery be necessary.

The Food Bank spokeswoman Kristin Frost Albrecht told Big Island Now that Civil Defense has been providing the organization with the latest storm updates, and that preparations have been made for potential indirect impact in the Puna, Ka’u, and South Kona areas.

“We have set water and other immediate needs aside for any potential recovery, and are ready and able to provide relief from either side of the island in the event of flooding or road closures,” said En Young, The Food Basket’s Executive Director. “We believe we’ve learned a great deal from Iselle, and would remind the public to keep your eyes and ears open and report any damages, power outages, or other immediate needs to the authorities as soon as possible.”

Youg says that preparation and relaying information regarding immediate needs helps to ensure that The Food Basket, along with other agencies, is able to provide the proper help where it is most needed and as quickly as possible.

The Food Basket collects and distributes food to over 80 agencies on the Big Island. On a usual schedule, food is provided to low income households, the working poor, the disabled, the ill, senior citizens, children’s programs, and other charitable organizations that assist in serving those in need.