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Disaster Preparedness



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Disaster Preparedness

When disaster strikes, the Capital Area Food Bank is prepared to respond with food assistance and emergency supplies. 

The Food Bank provides direct food and water assistance, and works with America's Second Harvest – The Nation's Food Bank Network, to obtain and transport federal and state food supplies to affected areas in 21 Central Texas counties. In times of national disaster, CAFB is a collection point for local donations to be shipped to the disaster site.

Whether the emergencies are on an individual level such as the loss of a job, or for larger disasters as seen with Hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Wilma, CAFB Partner Agencies provide direct food assistance to the most vulnerable.

Disaster Relief in 2005

When Hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Wilma devastated the Gulf Coast and Florida in August and September 2005, CAFB was there to respond with food, water, and emergency supplies for local evacuees arriving in Central Texas.

Food Bank was a local collection point for donations after Hurricane Katrina. More than 2 million pounds of food, water and cleaning supplies were sent to the GulfT Coast.

Download the Hurricane Relief Retrospective Newsletter (PDF)

Who do I contact in case of emergency?

Capital Area Food Bank Partner Agencies
Many Food Bank Partner Agencies exist to meet emergency food needs. View a list of CAFB Partner Agencies. or downlad the Emergency Referral List (PDF).

2-1-1 Texas
Call 2-1-1 for access to information about health and human services in your community. If you are calling from outside of Texas, or have technical difficulties when dialing 2-1-1 from your mobile, voice-over-IP or office phone, please dial the toll-free alternate access number at 1-877-541-7905.  Visit the 2-1-1 Texas website.

Health and Human Services Commission
HHSC oversees the operations of the health and human services system, provides administrative oversight of Texas Health and Human Services Programs, and provides direct administration of several programs including Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, food stamps and nutritional programs, and disaster assistance.

Local Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)
The CERT Program educates and trains individuals in basic disaster response skills. Members are encouraged to support emergency response agencies by taking an active role in local emergency preparedness efforts. View a list of Texas CRT organizations.

Emergency Food Supply Kit Tips

  • Store emergency food and water off the floor in a cool, dry adequately ventilated location. 
  • Keep track of food expiration dates in your emergency supply kit. Replace water every six months.
  • Be prepared for at least three days, including one gallon of water per person per day for drinking, cooking and sanitary needs.
  • Store water in clean plastic, fiberglass or enamel-lined metal containers.  Milk jugs can become brittle over time and are not recommended for storage.
  • Store ready-to-eat, non-perishable, high protein, high-calorie foods.  Peanut butter, canned meats, energy bars, and canned fruits and vegetables are good choices. Include one manual can opener if you need it.
  • Learn about safe food consumption and storage.

The American Red Cross
The American Red Cross is a non-governmental agency that is often the first responder in major emergencies. In addition to providing shelter, food and health and mental health services to address basic human needs, they also feed emergency workers, handle inquiries from concerned family members outside the disaster area, provide blood and blood products to disaster victims and help those affected by disaster to access other available resources.

Visit www.centex.redcross.org to learn more about disaster preparedness tips, training, and to purchase supplies. The www.prepare.org website provides disaster preparedness materials including special tips for seniors, children, people with disabilities and pet owners.

The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army, a non-governmental relief agency, responds to emergencies by providing food, shelter, clothing and spiritual comfort. Some chapters have mobile kitchens equipped to serve hot meals.  Learn more about the Salvation Army in Texas.

How do I learn about local disaster preparedness planning?

Governor's Division of Emergency Management 
The Governor's Division of Emergency Management (GDEM) provides all-hazard emergency management for the State, and for assisting cities, counties, and state agencies in planning and implementing disaster preparation and response efforts. Visit the website to learn about local preparedness plans and protocol for a wide range of emergencies.