TASC is grateful for having received a $4,000 grant from Verizon's Community Fund to purchase emergency preparedness backpacks for clients.
Thanks to the grant, we were able to create 80 backpacks that went to TASC’s independent and supported living programs as the clients within these programs have the highest level of need for these emergency supplies.
These packs have enough food and water to sustain two people for three days. Additionally, the packs include first-aid kits, emergency blankets, safety lights, PPE, personal wipes and more. Many clients also received an emergency radio as well.
"Creating emergency kits for clients living on their own in the community has been on our wish list for a long time," said Lisa Steidl, Program Manager of In-Home Services. "I'm glad we were able to complete this project with the assistance of Verizon's grant. Clients that are within this program don't always have the same support structure of living in a group home or with family if an emergency were to strike. Now, they will be ready for just about anything!"
The backpacks were distributed with a drive-thru at the TASC parking lot.
Clients were also happy to get the packs saying: "Cool, I feel safe." and "I hope there's no earthquakes."
We also hope there's no reason to use the backpacks! However, now they will be fully prepared.
This project will continue with clients in other programs being identified for additional emergency kits. We are thankful to have received additional donated backpacks and items from TASC family member, Jessica Derby. Those items will be distributed soon.
See below for a video of our clients with the backpacks and our drive-thru setup to keep everyone safe during pickup.
Thank you, Verizon for this opportunity! And thank you to all our donors for making special projects like this possible for TASC to go above and beyond for our community.