Summer Blog Series

When disasters strike, BBF is ready to respond, delivering essential aid quickly to communities facing crisis. BBF’s Disaster Response Program works with trusted partners to provide critical supplies like clean water, generators, medical equipment, shelter materials, and hygiene kits.

In 2024, BBF responded to 15 major disasters, providing both shipments and grants to food banks, clinics, and local nonprofit organizations helping families on the front lines of recovery. The strength of this program comes from BBF’s long-standing relationships with local partners, transportation networks, and international aid groups. These connections allow aid to reach those who need it most, when they need it most.

A key part of this effort is the Hygiene Kit Program. Assembled by volunteers at BBF’s Pittsburgh warehouse, each kit contains basic personal care items for individuals and families impacted by emergencies. This hands-on project engages local community members, corporate groups, and volunteers of all ages. It also ensures that BBF has a steady supply of kits ready to ship at a moment’s notice. Hygiene kits have helped people recovering from hurricanes, wildfires, floods, and those facing housing insecurity. They meet immediate needs and promote dignity in times of upheaval.

So far in 2025, BBF has responded to a series of emergencies across the United States. In January, wildfires in California devastated communities, and BBF provided grants to food banks, free and charitable clinics, local nonprofits, school districts, and animal shelters. In the months that followed, BBF responded to tornado outbreaks in Mississippi, Missouri, and Kentucky, working with local partners to support recovery efforts. Most recently, BBF responded to the deadly floods that swept through Texas over the July 4 weekend, sending emergency grants and hygiene kits to help communities in crisis.