Gleaning For The World began as a small supplier of clothing and other items to local organizations working with the
homeless. From our first day, we have been involved in helping groups in the U.S. provide for the needs of
Americans living in poverty.
When Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf coast of the United States in 2005, GFTW became actively involved in
domestic disaster relief. Within the first 60 days after the hurricane wreaked its havoc, GFTW placed 56 tractor-trailer
loads of supplies in the Gulf states. After this initial surge of supplies, we continued to seek ways to help. As
houses began to be rebuilt, GFTW worked with The Churches of Christ Disaster Relief Effort to place 122 tractor-trailer
loads of new furniture in the Gulf region. This furniture made it possible for 3,000 families to return to their
homes and begin new lives.
Pre-Positioning Supplies
The devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina caused us to examine ways GFTW can work proactively to ensure that
supplies will be available within hours of a natural disaster. As a result, we have worked with various agencies and
organizations to pre-position food, water, cleaning supplies and blankets in strategic locations in Florida, Virginia,
Alabama, Kansas and Missouri.
Lifeline Survival Back Packs
We all remember the pictures from New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. People were stranded on rooftops, on highways,
in shelters — with no food, water or medical assistance. It was a lesson to all of us about the necessity of
being personally prepared, whether we live in a hurricane-prone area or places where floods or tornadoes may
strike.
In preparation for this year’s hurricane season, GFTW has begun manufacturing Lifeline Survival Back Packs.
Designed to be portable and easy to grab in an emergency, these packs include enough food and water for one
adult for three days, first aid supplies and a blanket. They also include instructions for first aid, use of food after a
disaster, and information on personal documents that should be ready in case of emergency. They will be distributed
by humanitarian organizations providing disaster relief in areas of need.
To donate a Lifeline Survival Back Pack, click here.
For information on emergency safety measures and preparing a survival back pack for yourself or your family, click
here. (PDF | 300kb)
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