How to Support the Gluten-Free Community After Recent Hurricanes
Ways to help, no matter where you're located
Over the past few weeks, parts of the US have been devastated by hurricanes Helene and Milton. As reported in The News & Observer, many people in Western North Carolina continue to rely on nonperishable food items and donated meals as they still don’t have power or access to clean water for cooking.
But, as this article notes, much of this food is off-limits to those with celiac disease or other dietary restrictions. Thankfully, a few organizations and local businesses have stepped up to help gluten-free community members get their hands on safe food.
For example, according to The News & Observer, Diana Casteel, owner of Pies by Di, a gluten-free bakery in Hendersonville, North Carolina, has provided gluten-free baked goods and pantry staples to customers who’ve reached out for assistance.
Casteel goes on to say that she’ll need to look for a new kitchen since hers has minor damage and no power. Her gluten-free bakery isn’t the only food establishment affected; CBS News reports on the extensive damage to many local businesses, restaurants included.
If you’re looking for ways to help celiacs access safe food—and support gluten-free businesses in the affected areas—here are a few things you can do, no matter where you’re located.
Donate gluten-free food
My friends Ann of @glutenfreeforgood, Amber of @glutenfree_clt_and_beyond, and Jennifer of @nicks.snack.pack put together a guide on how you can send gluten-free food to those who need it in Western North Carolina:
As referenced in their post, here are the two organizations they recommend donating to if you’re in a position to help:
FOODiversity is a North Carolina nonprofit accepting donations to provide gluten-free and allergy-safe food to those affected by Hurricane Helene. You can donate online here or purchase gluten-free products from their Amazon wishlist, which will be shipped directly to the site.
The National Celiac Association is a national organization fundraising to support people who need gluten-free food in regions impacted by natural disasters. You can donate online here or text GFFOOD to 44-321 to donate.
Volunteer to distribute gluten-free food
Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG) is looking for volunteers who live near areas in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, and North Carolina affected by the hurricanes to help distribute gluten-free food.
As GIG notes in the above Instagram post: “Emergency relief often lacks gluten-free options, creating a critical situation for those who rely on them.” If you’re able to volunteer, reach out to GIG at caresadmin@gigcares.org.
Support gluten-free restaurants
Posana, a gluten-free restaurant in Asheville, North Carolina, has put together a GoFundMe for monetary support that will go directly to the staff.
As noted in the GoFundMe, “Posana sustained no damage to its structure but the soul of that structure, our staff, is now facing the uncertainty of employment and housing in the coming months.” You can donate via GoFundMe here.
Additionally, Margaret Clegg shared in her most recent newsletter that HaleLife Bakery, a gluten-free and vegan bakery with multiple locations in the St. Petersburg and Tampa area of Florida, is accepting donations.
Your donation will go toward supporting their business, which is suffering financially after Hurricane Milton, as well as helping to provide gluten-free, vegan, and allergy-friendly food to those affected in the Tampa Bay area. You can donate online here.
If you know of any other local gluten-free businesses in need of support, please leave a comment with details.
Such a helpful resource!
Thank you for gathering all of these great options!