Helping Out Fellow Celiacs in Joplin, MO

I originally read this on the Gluten Free Works website last week. Given the nature of the content, I am reposting the letter from Barbara Hicks the leader of the Tri Lakes Celiac Support Group in Kimberling, MO. I urge vendors to make a donation to the tornado ravaged community!

Hi Everyone,

I am sure that by now you have heard about the tornado that hit Joplin.  It took out a major portion of the town including the two major grocery stores where celiacs there were able to access GF foods.   Much of the town is without electricity and due to contamination issues, their water is also contaminated.   Those that still have a home and access to water are under a boil order.

Many of these folks have also lost their jobs because of the businesses that have been destroyed in the storm. It is a difficult situation for people without food issues, let alone someone with celiac disease.

I have been in contact with the leader of the new support group there and she is one of the lucky ones who still has a home and power.  She and her husband have offered to be a contact point to hand out GF supplies to celiacs in their community.

If anyone, individual or company, would be willing to provide GF items to them for distribution, please let me know and I will provide their contact information.  She mentioned that there would be a particular need for shelf stable items that folks can keep without refrigeration/freezing and also require minimal preparation like GF bars, crackers, etc.

Some folks that have been relocated to friends or relatives homes might be able to use mixes, but not have access to safe cookware.  Maybe disposable foil pans would be a good idea if you send mixes. 

Thank you so much for your willingness to read this message and perhaps help out fellow celiacs in need.

If you have any questions, please feel free to email me.

Barbara Hicks
Tri Lakes Celiac Support Group
Kimberling City, MO

Email Barbara by clicking here!