November 14, 2024 - In the aftermath of the recent devastating floods caused by the weather phenomenon DANA*, many communities in Spain - particularly in the Valencian Community and Castilla-La Mancha - are facing urgent challenges, including limited access to clean water and specialised foods like gluten-free products essential for people with coeliac disease.
The Celiac Disease Association of the Valencian Community (ACECOVA), a dedicated member of FACE (Federación de Asociaciones de Celiacos de España), has set up a bank account specifically to fund the purchase of gluten-free foods for those impacted by the floods. Due to logistical constraints, including a lack of storage space, ACECOVA is currently unable to handle physical donations of gluten-free foods. Instead, they are encouraging monetary donations to support the purchase and distribution of these essential items to those in need.
So far, ACECOVA has successfully delivered at least 245 gluten-free food packages to families in the towns of Alaquàs, Albal, Alcasser, Aldaia, Alfafar, Algemesí, Benetússer, Castellar, Catarroja, Godelleta, L'Alcudia, La Torre, Massanassa, Paiporta, Picanya, Picassent, Requena, Sedaví, and Torrent i Xiva.
The situation remains challenging, with many areas still without power and water, and shops and supermarkets still closed. Additionally, people are now being relocated to other areas due to the collapse of their homes.
Over 78 towns have been affected, with conditions varying greatly among them. ACECOVA's emergency measures continue, providing hot and packaged gluten-free food directly to those affected.
María van der Hofstadt Rovira from ACECOVA reports, "We have created our own small gluten-free food bank with all the products we receive from donations, and we will continue providing this direct aid to those affected as well as to the volunteers helping them. The solidarity of the Valencians has been wonderful, with many people crossing over daily to help their neighbours clean the streets, houses, and everything."
How You Can Help
If you would like to contribute to these critical relief efforts, donations can be made to the following account:
- Bank: Caixabank
- Account Number: ES72 2100 1957 9602 0005 6324
- Account Holder: ACECOVA
- Swift/BIC: CAIXESBBXXX
- Description: Donativo Acecova Dana 2024 Comunidad Valenciana - AOECS
Your support will help provide essential gluten-free foods to people with coeliac disease in flood-affected areas, ensuring they have safe dietary options during this difficult time. Thank you for your generosity.
* DANA stands for Depresión Aislada en Niveles Altos, which translates to Isolated Depression at High Levels. It describes a weather pattern that causes intense, isolated storms and often leads to heavy rainfall and flooding.