Food Bank asking for help to feed flood victims

SIKESTON - The Southeast Missouri Food Bank is asking local citizens to help in its efforts to feed hungry families displaced by flooding in and around Butler County. Recent flooding in Butler County has had devastating effects claiming two fatalities, impacting 450 homes and 10 businesses. Emergency shelters are accommodating 150 individuals while many other displaced residents are staying with family and friends.

"Southeast Missouri Food Bank continues to work with county emergency management directors and additional partners in local disaster-response agencies, local food pantries, and many other organizations. Disaster response is a core part of our mission, and we are dedicated to helping as many people as possible in the days and weeks to come," said Karen Green, chief executive officer of Southeast Missouri Food Bank. "Donations make our work possible. So many in Southeast Missouri are facing the extremely difficult task of rebuilding their homes and lives, and the last thing they need to worry about is having enough food to feed their families."

"There is an immediate need for food and money donations," said Hillary Hamra, programs director at Southeast Missouri Food Bank. A donation of $1 will provide four meals. Hamra said that even small money donations have a positive impact.

Volunteers are needed for a disaster relief mobile food pantry on 5 p.m. Wednesday at 621 West Pine in Poplar Bluff. Hamra said that volunteers are needed to distribute food to the needy, and that the volunteer work would not require any heavy lifting. To volunteer, contact Hamra at 573-475-7573, or email: hhamra@feedingamerica.org.

Money donations may be made by credit card at the Southeast Missouri Food Bank website: www.semofoodbank.org or by mailing a check to the Southeast Missouri Food Bank, PO Box 190 , Sikeston, Mo 63801.

Donations of food are also encouraged. Hamra said that food donations can be made at Walmart or at the Southeast Missouri Food Bank, 600 Highway H in Sikeston. Donated food may be canned or in a form which is "food shelf stable."