After eleven days without power we finally got it back last Thursday but all of our food was a loss. Our insurance will most likely not repay us for the 300$+ of gluten free food lost. Luckily, we are able to restock most of that on our own, although at a slower pace due to wedding budgeting than we would like. LIPA has restored power to approximately 99% of individuals without power, but some are still in the dark, which is unfortunately.
Because of the drastic impact this storm had on many gluten free families I wanted to make you aware of resources available if you are in need of food, or looking to help. Please see below, and feel free to add any other resources you are aware of:
1. CeliACT has an article which discusses some of the gluten free odds and ends to consider stocking up for in case of emergencies. This article also includes links to food banks and other resources.
2. The National Foundation for Celiac Awareness discusses several blogger initiatives to support victims of Hurricane Sandy in this article.
3. The Gluten Intolerance Group of Long Island is seeking to support those gluten free folks in need. Here are there contact details:
Info@gigofli.org
Les Doti – 631-513-9521 (Deer Park area)
Barbara Pepitone – 631-553-9161(Western Suffolk area)
Jim Ellingham – 516-4564968 (Nassau)
Barbara Bonovoglia – 631-567-0740 (Bohemia area)
Fran Watins – 631-848-4914 (Commack area)
4. Here are some other Long Island local resources that may need gluten free food supplies, or may have gluten free foods in stock if you are in need:
Food Not Bombs – I am most familiar with FNB, as a friend of mine runs it. He told me that they typically have many gluten free food items available and their staff and volunteers are aware which hot meals are gluten free, so please ask!
5. Although I am not as familiar with New Jersey Resources I had some difficulty pulling together resources, however according to another local blogger the Community Food Bank of New Jersey appears to be collecting and distributing GF Foods.
6. Although not gluten free specifically, many local supermarkets are taking donations in the form of food items or money for local food banks. Ask your cashier when checking out!
Please know that many businesses are willing to provide you with proof of purchase if you need to file an insurance claim. For example, if you are local Strictly Gluten Free has offered to print receipts if needed.
For further details on preparing for disasters with a gluten free life style please visit the below links:
Vistacost preparedness article
Celiac Central Blog article