Food on the Stove & M&T Bank Partner to Support First Responders in Western Maryland
$7,500 Donation from M&T Bank Fuels Community Rebuilding and First Responder Support in Westernport
Westernport, MD – October 2, 2025 — In a powerful show of community partnership, M&T Bank and Food on the Stove joined forces to host a Westernport Flood First Responder Appreciation Luncheon, honoring those who served during May’s devastating floods and supporting the town’s ongoing recovery efforts.
The day began with a heartfelt luncheon at the Potomac Fire Station and Tri-Towns EMS Station, where nearly 70 first responders and town employees gathered to share a meal, exchange stories, and receive recognition for their extraordinary service. The event highlighted Food on the Stove’s mission to improve the health and wellness of first responders through nutrition, wellness, and community care.
“We commend the local fire department and EMS personnel for their heroic role in swiftly responding to this natural disaster,” said LaKendra McNair, Senior Vice President and Head of Climate Resilient Communities at M&T Bank. “We hope our contribution can be a step toward restoring vital community resources and ensuring residents have the support necessary to fully rebuild their lives.”
Celebrating Resilience in the Heart of Westernport
In mid-May 2025, Westernport and the greater Georges Creek Valley were struck by a sudden, intense storm that dumped several inches of rain in just a few hours — triggering a flash flood emergency.
Georges Creek, which runs through the heart of town, rose more than seven feet within six hours, breaching its banks and inundating streets, homes, and local businesses. The flooding forced the evacuation of Westernport Elementary School, where approximately 150 students and 50 staff were rescued by boat as water encroached on upper floors.
Roads were washed out, vehicles were stranded, and entire blocks of downtown were left coated in mud and debris. Many residents suffered severe water damage to their homes, resulting in mold growth, structural issues, and the loss of essential appliances.
Despite meeting federal relief thresholds, FEMA denied Maryland’s request for disaster assistance, leaving the burden of recovery to local officials, nonprofit partners, and community members determined to rebuild together.
“The bravery and resilience of the first responders that day is not something we can simply overlook,” said Jonathan Tate, Founder of Food on the Stove. “It takes a special type of person to run toward danger when everyone else is running away. That day, the first responders of Westernport put their community above their own safety. We just want to celebrate their efforts.”
Community Support and Recovery
As part of the collaboration, M&T Bank partnered with Food on the Stove to provide lunch, fresh groceries, new gas grills, cookware, and meal kits to families affected by the floods. The event also served as a reminder of the power of partnership in helping communities heal.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the recovery efforts and be the difference in our community,” said Tiffany Latta, Assistant Vice President and Westernport Branch Manager at M&T Bank.
About the Partners
M&T Bank
Headquartered in Buffalo, New York, M&T Bank serves communities across the eastern United States. With a deep commitment to community investment, M&T continues to support local organizations and initiatives that strengthen neighborhoods. Learn more at www.mtb.com/community
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