MANNA FoodBank Holds Farewell Ceremony After Flood Damage

Community gathering at MANNA FoodBank's farewell ceremony

News Summary

MANNA FoodBank in Asheville, N.C., held a farewell ceremony to its damaged facilities caused by Hurricane Helene’s severe flooding. The event highlighted the organization’s resilience as it shifts to a new, larger facility in Mills River. Community support has been critical, with over $24.5 million raised for recovery. The food bank has continued to serve families in need and is committed to tackling food insecurity in the region. The ceremony marks a significant transition in its mission to provide essential food assistance.

Asheville, N.C. — MANNA FoodBank Holds Farewell Ceremony After Flood Damage

MANNA FoodBank, a significant food assistance organization in Asheville, N.C., commemorated the official farewell to its facilities that were severely impacted by Hurricane Helene. This ceremony occurred seven months after the hurricane led to devastating flooding from the nearby Swannanoa River in September 2024.

The flooding caused the Swannanoa River to crest, resulting in substantial damage to the food bank’s buildings, crucial equipment, and millions of pounds of food that had been set aside for community needs. According to reports from MANNA, this catastrophic event represented an unprecedented level of destruction compared to previous flooding incidents.

Despite the significant losses, MANNA FoodBank demonstrated remarkable resilience. Within just two weeks of the hurricane, the organization managed to serve over 8,000 families and executed a plan for its new facility, which is located in Mills River and is slated to be larger than the prior site. This move has been in the pipeline for several years, demonstrating the food bank’s proactive approach to growth and service enhancement.

The food bank’s former location had previously contended with flooding issues, but the impact of Hurricane Helene was unlike anything they had encountered before. It not only destroyed essential operational infrastructure, including forklifts and other vital tools, but it also precipitated a loss of much-needed food supplies for local families.

Community Support and Recovery Efforts

Community support played a vital role in MANNA FoodBank’s recovery. The organization raised $24.5 million through a benefit concert, out of which it received $3.2 million directly for recovery efforts. These funds have been allocated toward procuring operational necessities such as pallet jacks and IT infrastructure, which are essential for resuming normal operations.

Moreover, the Carolina Hurricanes Foundation provided a generous donation of $50,000 aimed at funding pre-made MANNA Packs for children affected by the flooding, thereby addressing the growing food insecurity in the region. Volunteers are actively working at the new site to ensure that food distribution continues smoothly.

In the immediate aftermath of the hurricane, operations were swiftly relocated to the Western North Carolina Farmer’s Market, allowing MANNA to maintain its service to the community without significant interruption. Partner organizations, such as In His Hands Food Pantry in Brevard, which serves around 100 families, were initially concerned about the continuity of services due to the destruction at MANNA but expressed admiration for the quick recovery efforts.

Looking Ahead

As MANNA FoodBank transitions to its new facility, the staff and volunteers remain committed to their overarching mission of combating hunger and addressing food insecurity in Western North Carolina. Donations for food distribution and recovery are still ongoing, ensuring that assistance continues to reach those in need amidst the challenges posed by Hurricane Helene. The community’s resilience and support serve as a reminder of the collective strength in overcoming adversity.

The farewell ceremony not only marked the end of an era for MANNA FoodBank but also set the stage for a new beginning in its mission to serve the community and provide essential support to families facing food insecurity.