Food Bank’s Response to Oklahoma Tornado

TYLER – The East Texas Food Bank is saddened by the tragedy that has struck Oklahoma and is responding, according to a food bank news release. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families and those who lost their home in this disaster,” according to food bank officials. The news release continues, “The East Texas Food Bank is working within a coordinated effort of emergency response organizations and the Feeding America network of food banks, including the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, to help meet the needs of those impacted by the tornado.”

In accordance with its disaster plan, the food bank was pre-staged by Feeding America, the national food bank network, with a truckload of sanitation supplies. In response to Tuesday’s request from the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, the truck was deployed Wednesday afternoon. The news release continues, “We are prepared to respond when called upon for any other needs and will share those needs with our East Texas community.”

East Texas Food Bank officials also note, “Local organizations have asked us to relay their need for cash donations, rather than food, water, or other supplies at this time. Although well-intentioned, unsolicited donations that are not needed can take time and energy to coordinate and sort. At this point, the best way that East Texans may support these efforts are through financial donations to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma on their website at http://www.RegionalFoodBank.org or by texting FOOD to 32333 to give $10 to relief efforts.”