Houston Food Bank Reopens After Harvey, Needs Volunteers And Donations

Anyone in Houston who’s looking for a way to aid disaster relief efforts can head to the Houston Food Bank, which has officially reopened after Hurricane Harvey and is in need of volunteers and donations.

The food bank, which is located at 535 Portwall Street, will start registering volunteers today 1 p.m. today. Prospective volunteers are encouraged to register online before heading out to the food bank, and anyone aged 16 or younger must be accompanied by an adult, either parent or guardian.

Volunteer will pack Disaster Boxes, inspect and sort food and repack dry food into family-sized bags. Closed toe shoes and sleeved shirts are required for all volunteers. Interested volunteers can pick up shifts Monday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday. The food bank will also keep its doors open on Labor Day to continue meeting the need.

Donations can be made from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The distribution center is in need of canned, ready-to-eat food with pull tops, canned meat, stew or chili, peanut butter, snacks like granola bars, toiletries, paper goods, diapers and cleaning supplies. Of course, donations of cash are ideal. At this time, the Houston Food Bank is not accepting clothing, household items or baby food.

Anyone who needs food or supplies should contact the Houston Food Bank Helpline at 832-369-9390.