The potential of Hurricane Barry’s impact may have canceled Delta Sigma Theta’s sorority convention in New Orleans, but not all of their efforts for the celebratory weekend were in vain.

The food from Centerplate catering set to serve 16,000 of the sorority’s members was saved and donated to the city’s Second Harvest Food Bank for later distribution. Delta Sigma Theta National President and CEO Beverly Smith announced the cancellation Friday.

After consultation with the New Orleans Mayor and others regarding the expectation of Tropical Storm Barry, the 54th National Convention will conclude Friday, July 12, per an announcement by Beverly E. Smith, National President and CEO last night.#DSTconvention2019
#DST1913
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— Delta Sigma Theta (@dstinc1913) July 12, 2019

Hurricane Barry, which was upgraded from a tropical storm on Saturday morning, developed earlier in the week and moved slowly throughout the Gulf Coast region, subsequently flooding streets, homes and businesses. According to AP News, New Orleans’ floodgates were sealed for the first time since Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

Jay Vise, a spokesperson from Second Harvest, told The Times-Picayune the donations are vital during disaster relief operations. The salvaged food included portions of chicken breast, potatoes au gratin, macaroni and cheese and flourless chocolate cake.

“We are delighted that Centerplate donated the food we purchased, making it available as a result of us terminating our convention early,” Smith said. “With 16,000 attendees and two food functions canceled — our Sisterhood Luncheon and closing Soiree Celebration — there was inordinate amounts of food that would have been wasted. Kudos to Centerplate.”

Before leaving the city to return home, sorority members donated their time and efforts to the Barry Relief Kitchen in New Orleans.

Although their convention was cut short, these Delta Sigma Theta sisters jumped into action to volunteer at our #Barry Relief Kitchen in New Orleans today. We are grateful for the support! #ChefsForLouisiana
#DSTConvention2019
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— World Central Kitchen (@WCKitchen) July 13, 2019

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. is one of nine historically Black sororities/fraternities and was founded in 1913.

Food-Donations

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