In the aftermath of devastating tornadoes that struck Mississippi in March, BBF provided a grant to Mississippi Food Network (MFN) to strengthen disaster response efforts across the state. With a 56-county service area and a deep network of local partner agencies, MFN was well-positioned to reach those most affected by the storms—particularly low-income families, seniors, and rural residents.

Thanks to BBF’s support, MFN was able to replenish its stock of disaster-ready food boxes and bottled water, positioning these critical supplies with trusted community partners before the next emergency struck. This strategy proved especially effective in Marion, Leflore, and Smith counties, where 26,328 pounds of food and water were distributed to residents recovering from storm damage and power outages.

Many of the people MFN helped were suddenly without access to food due to storm-related disruptions, MFN reported. “The grant helped [us] meet their immediate needs and kept food flowing during the recovery period.”

One particularly meaningful response occurred in a small town where apartment roofs were damaged by the storms, leaving residents with few options. MFN and its partners were able to deliver food and bottled water directly to those impacted, providing comfort and stability when it was needed most.

The grant was used exactly as planned, with MFN reaffirming the strength of its disaster response model: empowering local partners with resources they can mobilize quickly. “We also saw how much people trust our partner agencies; many turned to them first before other help was available. This showed us that our approach of supporting local partners really works.”