Prepared to Respond
When powerful tornadoes ripped through southeastern Kentucky on May 18, 2025, communities across Laurel and Pulaski Counties were left reeling. The storms flattened homes, destroyed businesses, and claimed at least 19 lives. More than 170,000 Kentuckians lost power, and emergency crews searched through rubble for survivors.
In the face of tragedy, two things are clear: Kentucky comes together in times of crisis. And God’s Pantry Food Bank was ready to help.
Thanks to our new facility and recent investments from our $40 million Capacity Campaign: Building the Future, Nourishing Communities, we mobilized immediately. Within hours, disaster relief boxes and pallets of water were staged at our Southeastern Regional Distribution Center in London.
Working alongside community partners, including Hart Baptist Church, First Presbyterian Church, local government, and first responders, we coordinated the delivery of 108,332 pounds of emergency food and water to impacted neighbors within days.
This wasn’t just a response; it was proof that capacity matters. Expanded space, upgraded infrastructure, and improved logistics enabled us to act faster, reach farther, and serve more Kentuckians.
Why This Matters
In the past, space and logistics limited how quickly and effectively we could respond. Today, we’re seeing the real-world impact of our campaign investments, and this is just the beginning.
With demand continuing to grow and natural disasters increasing in frequency, we must continue to build for the future. More than 280,000 Kentuckians are currently facing hunger. This storm reminded us how quickly that number can climb.
Join Us
Your support of the Capacity Campaign enables us to serve both everyday hunger relief and emergency response. Because of supporters like you, our team was there when it mattered most.
Together, we’re building a stronger, safer, and more nourished Kentucky.
