Helping Friends and Family in an Emergency

In 1989, Hurricane Hugo hit my hometown.  My family was without power for nearly 3 weeks.  They were lucky - some areas didn't get power for 2 months. 


This was before many price-gouging laws were in effect or enforced.  Ice was $10 a bag (nearly 10 times what a bag normally costs now, 20 years later, so you can imagine how jacked up the price was compared to 1989 prices).  Propane?  If you could find it (nearly impossible), it was outrageous.


Luckily, my dad has always been a camping enthusiast.  He had a gas grill, plenty of propane, and lots of camping equipment.  They had lights, hot food, hot showers and more.


Dad cooked for more than just his own family during that difficult time.  When the neighbors smelled food cooking when my Dad fired up the grill, they came over and he was happy to share.  For some neighbors, the hot meal they had that day at my Dad's house was the only hot meal they had had in days.


I feel like being able to use a solar cooker in an emergency is even better than a grill.  I won't run out of fuel!


Having a solar cooker during an emergency can not only help your family, but can help others in an emergency.  Having a hot, hearty meal can make a world of difference in a crisis situation.  


This is one reason why I am so passionate about spreading the word about solar cooking:  it can make a difference in people's lives, and can provide help for families in need.