Genuine Foods Delivers Emergency Meals During Hurricane Helene at Lees-McRae College

Banner Elk, North Carolina | School: Lees-McRae College (873 students)

Dining That Feels Like Home

Genuine Foods provides fresh, nourishing dining for Lees-McRae’s students every day. That commitment was put to the test during Hurricane Helene.

Crisis response:

In September 2024, Hurricane Helene stranded 220 students and 60 faculty/staff on campus with limited food supplies.

Emergency meals delivered by helicopter:

Partnered with Samaritan’s Purse to coordinate food delivery when supply chains were cut off
Secured 99 cases of nonperishable food via U.S. Foods’ Charlotte distribution center and volunteer drivers
Prepared 300–350 meals daily for students, staff, and emergency responders during a 38-day campus closure

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Community support:

Local businesses, including a bakery, contributed food to boost morale and aid recovery.

A Demonstration of Commitment

Despite enormous challenges, swift coordination and partnerships ensured students and staff were cared for throughout the crisis, demonstrating Genuine Foods’ adaptability and commitment to service.

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