Pandemic Holiday? Give the Gift of an Emergency Food Supply

The holidays are a time when we usually think about seeing family and friends and, often, sharing meals with them. But the COVID-19 pandemic, still running strong, is throwing a wrench into the gears. So, instead of spending time in the kitchen cooking for a huge gathering, why not devote time to your family, friends, and neighbors by preparing an emergency food supply?The Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) recommends having a two-week supply of food for the members of your household. Because we've all chosen to live on an island that will be difficult to resupply in an emergency, think about adding two weeks to that supply. If you have the financial means, consider adding another two weeks for charity, to help out those just visiting the island when the disaster strikes.Six weeks of food is a lot to manage. Happily, there are a number of resources available to help you out:

• Bainbridge Prepares has partnered with Cascadia Quake Kits, which offers a variety of kits for a quick and easy solution.
• Costco is also a good place to purchase food in bulk if you have a list of supplies to guide you.
• Speaking of lists, The Kitsap Sun has prepared the Year of Prepping guide to help you build a complete emergency supply over the span of 12 months.

Building an emergency food supply may be the very best holiday gift you could offer family and friends. It is an act of caring that helps ensure the future safety and well-being of the people you love. And theses pandemic months, when there is not a whole lot else to do, may be the optimal time for focusing on this act of caring.P.S. Don't forget the water! One gallon per person per day; be sure to also include the animals under your care.