I have always thought of hoarding as something that is done when there is a definite emergency going on and rationing for equal distribution to all was threatened.

If I am stocking up now when there is no emergency or rationing of the items I am stocking up on, I am not hoarding.

In an emergency situation, governmental agencies can under laws already in place seize your stash for redistribution, but that does not imply you acted illeagally.

If you go to a central emergency shelter, items can be taken from you to seve the more needy. An example would be you bringing a cot and having it seized for use as a stretcher or operating table which is more important than having you sleeping on it. Likewise if you bring a cooler or any container with food or water to the shelter, they can redistribute it if they fear a shortage of what they already have will occur.

Best way seems to be, hole up with what you have somewhere that only you can access until your supplies deplete to the point where you need help. That way you aren't using the common assets of the shelter, and you aren't hiding your stuff to use later after taking advantage of the shelters offerings.

I know they do not allow pets in long term shelters, but I have been wondering about people who have gastric bypass surgery. Those people need more calories because they have removed food processing intestines and will use up more of a shelters resources. Personally, I am all for maintaining equal portion and calorie control for all in the shelter, and if the gastric bypass surgery people perish because of their operations ---------- sorry.

Bountyhunter