San Antonio organizations provide aid for Hurricane Ida victims

SAN ANTONIO — The San Antonio Food Bank is sending another truck Wednesday filled with supplies to help hundreds of thousands of victims of Hurricane Ida in Louisiana who are with little to no water and electricity. That’s in addition to another truck they sent carrying residents’ most needed items Tuesday morning.

“When there’s a need, people respond,” Eric Cooper, President and CEO of the San Antonio Food Bank, said. “The urgency is great.”

The organization sent out its first truck, stacked with almost 40,000 of food, water and cleaning supplies..

“Injuries, hospitals, COVID, the lack of availability and the scarcity makes someone feel very alone, very desperate,” Cooper said. “Food has the ability to calm. It has the ability to nourish.”

CPS Energy said it hasn’t received any requests for crews, but they have sent help.

District 7 Fire Rescue also sent over a team of four as well as a fire engine.

The San Antonio Humane Society is preparing to receive nearly 100 pets, according to a press release.

“For us, it’s a privilege to be able to help someone in need,” Cooper said.

The aid comes as Louisiana residents may go several weeks without power, and temperatures are expected to rise.

The San Antonio Food Bank says one of the most important things to do in a time of disaster is wait. He suggests folks who wish to help donate to established organizations. 

“We don’t want to be a part of the crisis or or disaster by just acting and sending stuff,” Cooper said.

As soon as that call is made, however, they’re locked in, and ready to roll.