DISASTER PREPAREDNESS AND RELIEF

When disaster strikes, CAFB is prepared to respond with food assistance and emergency supplies.

In addition to providing direct food and water assistance, CAFB works with Feeding America to obtain and transport federal and state food supplies to affected areas. 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 Ike, CAFB Partner Agencies provide direct food assistance to the most vulnerable.

Hurricane Disaster Relief

Emergency Food
Supply Kit Tips

Store emergency food and water off the floor in a cool, dry and 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.

Learn more about safe food consumption and storage from the USDA.

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. CAFB 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 Gulf Coast.

When Hurricane Ike hit the Texas coast with the full force of a Category 4 hurricane, it didn't just destroy property. It devastated lives. Central Texans worked through CAFB to help. Here are just a few of the stories.

Who do I contact in case of emergency?

CAFB Partner Agencies 
Many CAFB Partner Agencies meet emergency food needs. Find a Partner Agency or download the Emergency Referral List.

2-1-1 Texas 
Call 2-1-1 to get information about services in your community. If you are calling from outside of Texas or have technical difficulties when dialing 2-1-1, please dial the toll-free number 1-877-541-7905. Visit the 2-1-1 Texas Web site.

Health and Human Services Commission  (HHSC)
HHSC provides several programs, including Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, SNAP (food stamps), nutritional programs and disaster assistance.

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 mental health and health services to address basic needs, they also feed emergency workers, handle inquiries from concerned family members, provide blood and blood products to disaster victims, and help those affected by disaster access other available resources.

For additional information, including special tips for seniors, children, people with disabilities and pet owners, visit www.prepare.org.

The Salvation Army 
The Salvation Army's Texas Division, 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.

How do I learn about local disaster preparedness planning?

The Governor's Division of Emergency Management 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.