Dive Brief:
- Feeding America in the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank lost the materials handling equipment in the floods in Southern and Southwest Louisiana.
- The food bank runs a 172,000 square foot warehouse with a 6,000 square foot freezer, and flood damage is estimated to cost over $7 million, according to Modern Materials Handling.
- Toyota is among the logistics companies coming to the rescue. The automaker donated an end-controlled rider pallet jack to the bank and is offering equipment rebates or special financing affected customers.
Dive Insight:
Logistics companies have a unique way of being able to give back to afflicted communities: often times, weather related disruptions' largest impact is logistical. Relief agencies like the U.S. Coast Guard or the Red Cross often focus on transporting and delivering food to those without access. Help can be difficult without the necessary tools - so donating forklifts and other equipment to transport goods or continue production can be immensely helpful.
Other examples of logistics companies providing volunteer service abound: DC Velocity's monthly roundup of notable logistic charities notes rummage sales, packaging assistance for food banks, healthcare truckload deliveries and support for feed the children, among others.
