Feeding America Network Responds to Alabama Tornadoes

Largest Hunger-Relief Organization Continues Mobilizing During Violent Spring Storm Season

CHICAGO,  May 4, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Feeding America network of food banks has mobilized its disaster response team to provide food and water to eight states hit by violent storms and tornadoes last week.

"We are in the midst of a major effort to provide emergency food and water to dozens of communities throughout the South," said Vicki Escarra, President and CEO of Feeding America. "We are working closely with our Alabama-based food bank members to coordinate our efforts. Although the tornadoes are no longer front page news, it is important for all Americans to realize that thousands of people will need our help for many months to come."

Last week's storms were the worst seen in nearly 40 years. So far this spring, tornadoes from Texas to Virginia and as far north as Indiana have leveled towns, killed dozens of people and injured hundreds more.  Thousands of people remain without power and lack the ability to access, cook or store food.

The five Feeding America member food banks in Alabama are providing emergency relief provisions, including the Montgomery Area Food Bank, which serves Tuscaloosa, one of the hardest hit areas. 

Feeding America's network prepares for just such disasters by pre-staging disaster relief water, food items and grocery products throughout the nation. Most of the products dispatched to Alabama were stored at the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank, a Feeding America member.

As relief workers continue to provide assistance throughout the state, Feeding America will remain active in relief efforts with other leading disaster partners in providing service. 

To help food banks provide food to communities affected by this spring storm season, visit www.feedingamerica.org and make a financial donation.

About Feeding America

Feeding America provides low-income individuals and families with the fuel to survive and even thrive. As the nation's leading domestic hunger-relief charity, our network members supply food to more than 37 million Americans each year, including 14 million children and 3 million seniors. Serving the entire United States, more than 200 member food banks support 61,000 agencies that address hunger in all of its forms. For more information on how you can fight hunger in your community and across the country, visit http://www.feedingamerica.org. Find us on Facebook at facebook.com/FeedingAmerica or follow our news on Twitter at twitter.com/FeedingAmerica.

Contact:
Ross Fraser
312.641.6422

SOURCE Feeding America