This year, a record number of disasters in the United States means Midwest Food Bank volunteers have been assembling food boxes to respond. In the first half of 2023, 20 loads of water, food boxes, hygiene kits and cleaning supplies were sent to support disaster victims.

In June, semi-loads of water and food went from MFB's Disaster Relief hub in MFB Morton. Volunteers drove them to Mississippi, Texas, and Oklahoma to help victims of tornados. A semi-load of food boxes and personal hygiene kits went to Barre, VT, for victims of destructive flooding. In July, MFB New England also provided support to Vermont, sending two loads of bottled water.

"MFB can quickly package and send food thanks to our dedicated volunteers," says Lisa Martin, executive director of MFB Morton​. "We're grateful to be able to help in difficult times."

Many volunteers who have assisted with disaster relief are school-age children and their families. This demonstrates how volunteers of all ages and abilities make the work of MFB happen. The Morton location is the central site for MFB's disaster relief efforts. Volunteer semi-drivers also get the food to the disaster sites, and the Salvation Army distributes it.

If you are interested in volunteering when disaster relief efforts are needed, contact Lisa Martin at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..