Franklin County flood victims receive food and water with help from the Vermont Foodbank and Northwest Family Foods

January 19th, 2018, St. Albans, VT – After a six-mile ice jam caused severe flooding in Franklin County, Vermont last weekend, residents are still struggling to meet their basic needs. Without adequate access to water, food, and the means to prepare it, area residents are in need of assistance. Today the Vermont Foodbank delivered more than 5,000 pounds of water and prepared food and to Northwest Family Foods (the food pantry program at Franklin Grand Isle Community Action).

After the flood, the Vermont Foodbank reached out to partner food shelves and meal sites in flood affected areas to see how they could best assist. Northwest Family Foods jumped at the opportunity, and the two organizations have been collaborating to meet the need of Franklin county flood victims. Today’s delivery of more than 5,000 pounds of food and water will bring some much needed relief to families struggling to meet their needs.

Many displaced residents have been temporarily residing in motels, where they often lack access to even the most basic kitchen equipment. To best assist, the Foodbank is delivering food that doesn’t require cooking. The delivery includes prepared meals, cereal, granola milk, snacks, and pet food.

“The Vermont Foodbank works every day to provide emergency food assistance when and where our neighbors need it most,” says Vermont Foodbank CEO, John Sayles. “When disaster strikes, our Vermont community knows how to come together to provide the help our neighbors need. We are proud to be a part of this community and their efforts to assist flood victims.”

Today Northwest Family Foods will distribute the food and water at an event at the Swanton Fire Department (held by the America Red Cross). This event will feature a broad range of agencies providing resources and information to any individuals affected by the flooding.  The event will take place today from 9AM to 5PM, and tomorrow from 9AM to 1PM.