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Manna Food Pantry Hopes To Come Back After The Storm

One of the biggest losses from this week's storm was Manna Food Pantries, who's office and warehouse in Pensacola were just about a total loss.  WUWF's Bob Barrett toured the damage at the Manna complex on Gonzalez Street and spoke about what it means for the future of Manna with Executive Director Dee Dee Flounlacker, who said they have lost "approximately 60 to 75 percent of our food".

Credit Bob Barrett / WUWF News
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WUWF News
Dee Dee Flounlacker takes a call from a community leader in the flood damaged offices of Manna Food Pantry

On Manna's food storage:

The office and warehouse on Gonzalez street in Pensacola is the only place Manna stores their food. The only food still usable was stored on the higher shelves.

On Manna's clientele:

Last month Manna distributed food to 3,331 people. On a typical day more than 100 people would be at the main location getting food.

On Manna's future:

They are not going to be able to resume service for awhile and "I really don't know what 'awhile' will be right now". They do have flood insurance, but the damage will probably cost more than their coverage. They are determining if there is any structural damage to the foundation of the buildings. They also hope that, after two floods in less than two years they ultimately move to a new location.

On the response so far from the community:

Throughout the interview Flounlacker was taking calls on her cell phone from community members and leaders. Gulf Winds Credit Union is setting up a system to take cash donations from the public. One thing she stressed is they can not take any food donations at this time.  People who would like to donate cash can go HERE.

Bob Barrett has been a radio broadcaster since the mid 1970s and has worked at stations from northern New York to south Florida and, oddly, has been able to make a living that way. He began work in public radio in 2001. Over the years he has produced nationally syndicated programs such as The Environment Show and The Health Show for Northeast Public Radio's National Productions.