Langley Food Bank Closed After Flooding
Queen-Bee Pantry faced an unexpected setback just after its relocation. A burst hose led to flooding, forcing the food bank at 5826 Kramer Road in Langley to shut down temporarily. This incident occurred shortly after a successful Mother’s Day flower sale on Sunday.
Tanya Hernandez, one of the pantry’s co-founders, found water pouring from the ceiling when she arrived. The leak originated from Bayview Barbershop, drastically affecting not only the pantry but also other businesses on the bottom floor. Sadly, the pantry suffered the most damage.
While some food was spared, the flooding ruined essential equipment. “It’s a real mess,” said Hernandez, describing the water-covered floor and damaged ceiling. Various items, including computers, business licenses, carpets, and a bench valued at $700, were lost in the disaster.
Despite this blow, Hernandez is optimistic. “The community has helped us build this,” she noted. Starting in 2024 with just a few tables on her porch, the pantry quickly grew, serving around 7,000 individuals last year alone.
While dealing with the aftermath, the pantry is working with insurance and testing for asbestos before repairs begin. Even though the doors are closed for now, the pantry is not giving up. They plan to hold a car wash and bake sale on May 24 at Bayview Appliance & Mattress Center to help cover losses. Donations can still be made through their website or by contacting Hernandez directly.
“Queen-Bee Pantry stands for resilience and community,” Hernandez said. “We will come back stronger.” For more details, check out Queen-Bee Pantry’s website.
Community support is crucial during this recovery. In similar situations, studies have shown that food banks often rely on local donations and solidarity. A recent survey from Feeding America revealed that community-driven initiatives play a vital role in the resilience of local food banks.
