SUNRISE, FLA. (WSVN) - In partnership with South Florida’s BB&T Center, airliner JetBlue provided hot meals to about 10,000 residents in need after the destruction of Hurricane Irma, Wednesday.
Both lunch and dinner were served from more than 20 food trucks at the BB&T parking lot located a 2555 NW 136th Ave. in Sunrise.
The Florida Panthers were happy to give up their parking lot for the day to feed those in need.
“For us it was important to stand by the community, be supportive of Broward, be supportive of JetBlue and be supportive of our fans,” said Florida Panthers President and CEO Matthew Caldwell.
Everyone from neighbors to first responders were welcomed to grab a plate at Gates 3 and 5, between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., then again from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
The food trucks come as a relief to those who have gone up to five days without a hot meal.
While food was distributed in Sunrise, water was given out in other parts of the county.
With many residents under a boil water notice, officials wanted to make sure there was plenty of drinking water to go around.
“It’s very important that we help our residents in a time of need in a crisis like this,” said Dania Beach Mayor Tamara James.
Though lines were long for fresh water, some residents said it was worth the wait.
“I saw a Facebook post and I was like, ‘I need to go. Need to get some water,'” said one resident.
After a successful turnout, JetBlue associates have confirmed that the food distribution event will continue Thursday at the same time and place.
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