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Together with advocates from around the state, in late April, we engaged the RI General Assembly in support of legislation that would allocate $3 million in additional funding to help feed Rhode Islanders. Now, it’s time for the bill to be heard by the House Finance Committee.
There’s still time to express your support: email your Representativeby 3 PM this Thursday, May 14th. The easy-to-use tool on our website helps you send a message in 5 minutes or less.
TIP: Customizing the sample message helps ensure your email gets opened!
Springtime Healthy Habits Recipes
It’s officially springtime! As the days grow longer and the weather trends warmer, you may find yourself craving lighter meals with more fresh produce.
The Rhode Island Community Food Bank’s Community Nutrition team develops delicious, seasonal recipes using cost-effective ingredients that can be swapped with canned, frozen, or fresh ingredients – whatever you have on-hand.
This Mediterranean Salad is packed with fresh veggies, protein, and healthy fats. Try it as a make-ahead weeknight dinner, or bring it to a Memorial Day get together. View our full list of recipes.
Founded in 1982, the Rhode Island Community Food Bank serves as the central hub for food distribution across its state-wide network of 137 member agencies, ensuring that nutritious food reaches those who need it most in RI. Through donations, federal programs, and community partnerships, the Food Bank works to improve the quality of life for all Rhode Islanders by advancing solutions to the problem of hunger.
The RI Food Bank is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Your donation is tax-deductible as allowed by law.
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This Tuesday: Show up for food security
The following was originally published in our email newsletter. Sign up here (we’ll never share your information or spam you).
There’s still time to show up for food security in Rhode Island.
Tuesday, April 28 is coming up fast, and we’re still looking for friends of the Food Bank to show their support at the Rhode Island State House! If you’ve been wanting to get involved, this is an excellent opportunity to volunteer for a good cause.
Here’s what you need to know: State legislators are considering $3 million in additional funding to help feed Rhode Island neighbors, but they need to hear from their constituents that this is a priority. That’s where you come in.
Join us this Tuesday, April 28 at 3:30 PM at the State House to speak directly with your legislators. We’ll be there to greet you, direct you to the Chambers, and provide talking points so you feel prepared. No experience necessary!
TIP: If you’re driving, plan ahead to find street parking. Consider carpooling with a friend or taking public transit.
Learn more, read the legislation, and email your legislators on our website.
Can’t make it on Tuesday but want to show your support? There are still ways to get involved – and it takes just 2 minutes!
Even if you are planning to attend this Tuesday’s event at the State House, we’re asking ALL of our supporters and partners to write to your legislators in support of these bills.
Founded in 1982, the Rhode Island Community Food Bank serves as the central hub for food distribution across its state-wide network of 137 member agencies, ensuring that nutritious food reaches those who need it most in RI. Through donations, federal programs, and community partnerships, the Food Bank works to improve the quality of life for all Rhode Islanders by advancing solutions to the problem of hunger.
The RI Food Bank is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Your donation is tax-deductible as allowed by law.
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⚠️ Volunteer Opportunity: Fight Food Insecurity in RI
The following was originally published in our email newsletter. Sign up here (we’ll never share your information or spam you).
ACTION ALERT: The Food Bank is seeking volunteers to join us at the Rhode Island State House to advocate for increased funding for our work on Tuesday, April 28th at 3:30 PM.
We are so grateful to Governor Dan McKee, who included us in his FY27 budget for $2 million. But with food insecurity rising, and future reductions to the SNAP program still expected, we need more support from our state than ever. Our champions in the House and Senate have put forth companion bills to provide an additional $3 million to the Food Bank in FY27 – but lawmakers need to know this is important to their constituents!
We’re seeking the support of our community to tell our legislators: an investment in the Food Bank is an investment in Rhode Island.
Join us for a volunteer opportunity at the State House where we’ll direct you to House Chambers to speak directly with your representative. We’ll provide talking points and tips for engaging with your legislator.
Learn more, read the legislation, and find your legislators on our website.
On March 31st, we hosted our annual Empty Bowls event at the WaterFire Arts Center for an evening of food, art, and community. Thanks to the generosity of our guests, sponsors, and the talented artists who contributed their work, the night was a memorable celebration of just what makes Rhode Island great, and a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish together for neighbors experiencing food insecurity.
Founded in 1982, the Rhode Island Community Food Bank serves as the central hub for food distribution across its state-wide network of 137 member agencies, ensuring that nutritious food reaches those who need it most in RI. Through donations, federal programs, and community partnerships, the Food Bank works to improve the quality of life for all Rhode Islanders by advancing solutions to the problem of hunger.
The RI Food Bank is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Your donation is tax-deductible as allowed by law.
One in three households in Rhode Island is experiencing food insecurity. It’s our neighbors. Our colleagues. Our friends. Hunger hides in plain sight and shows up in surprising places.
Each month, the RI Food Bank‘s network of member agencies provides access to food for more than 89,000 Rhode Islanders. With changes to SNAP and high prices on basic necessities like utilities, food, rent and gas, more families – even those with 2 jobs – are struggling to make ends meet. Today and tomorrow, Rhode Island comes together for 401Gives in support of nonprofits like the Rhode Island Community Food Bank, providing vital services to our community.
“I have a relative on disability and her benefits were cut to $10. She is ok because we help her, but what about the others who don’t have people to pick up the slack?” – Diane
“I just want to help others.” – Ernest
“I know many people personally who are helped by your organization. I donate in honor of my parents who were always ready to help others, even though we had little ourselves.” – Anonymous
“I was hungry, so I went shopping and was shocked by the prices. But there are many who have no option to remain hungry. I’m especially concerned for parents who rely on school breakfast and lunch.” – Elizabeth
Founded in 1982, the Rhode Island Community Food Bank serves as the central hub for food distribution across its state-wide network of 137 member agencies, ensuring that nutritious food reaches those who need it most in RI. Through donations, federal programs, and community partnerships, the Food Bank works to improve the quality of life for all Rhode Islanders by advancing solutions to the problem of hunger.
The RI Food Bank is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Your donation is tax-deductible as allowed by law.
April 11-17 is the Week of the Young Child! Every April, the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) invites families, educators, and communities to come together for this joyful celebration of early learning, young children, and the adults who support them.
This year, the RI Food Bank, Ocean State Media, and other Rhode Island organizations are coming together to host a special (and free!) Kick Off Celebration at the Providence Children’s Museum on Saturday, April 11.
Then, Monday through Friday during the Week of the Young Child, parents and educators are encouraged to engage little ones in a number of fun,free, and educational virtual activities. For more information about these activities and the kick-off event, visit Ocean State Media’s website.
Since 2020, 401Gives has brought Rhode Islanders together to make a difference for the local nonprofits that deliver vital services to our communities. This year, 401Gives will take place from 6 AM on Tuesday, March 31 through 6 PM on Wednesday, April 1.
Make your gift to the Rhode Island Community Food Bank early: early bird gifts will be matched, dollar for dollar! Starting at 6 AM on the 31st, the first $20,000 donated on the 401Gives site will be matched by the Papitto Opportunity Connection. Maximum match per donor, per nonprofit is $500.
Founded in 1982, the Rhode Island Community Food Bank serves as the central hub for food distribution across its state-wide network of 137 member agencies, ensuring that nutritious food reaches those who need it most in RI. Through donations, federal programs, and community partnerships, the Food Bank works to improve the quality of life for all Rhode Islanders by advancing solutions to the problem of hunger.
The RI Food Bank is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Your donation is tax-deductible as allowed by law.
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Empty Bowls Restaurant Spotlight 🔦
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The Rhode Island Community Food Bank‘s beloved Empty Bowls fundraiser is just a few short weeks away! Celebrating Rhode Island’s vibrant creative community, this annual event supports neighbors facing hunger across the state. Your ticket includes unlimited tastings from 30+ local eateries, plus a handcrafted bowl of your choice to keep as a reminder that your support helps fill empty bowls.
Founded in 1982, the Rhode Island Community Food Bank serves as the central hub for food distribution across its state-wide network of 137 member agencies, ensuring that nutritious food reaches those who need it most in RI. Through donations, federal programs, and community partnerships, the Food Bank works to improve the quality of life for all Rhode Islanders by advancing solutions to the problem of hunger.
The RI Food Bank is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Your donation is tax-deductible as allowed by law.
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What’s New in the Warehouse
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What’s New in the Warehouse
The Rhode Island Food Bank’s warehouse is in a constant state of motion. Five days a week, food is delivered, and then just as quickly loaded onto our trucks to be sent out to our member agencies. There are staples we work hard to keep in stock, but there’s always something new and fresh making its way to our pantries and meal sites.
For New Englanders, snowy weather brings cravings for hearty foods. Frozen chicken is especially popular with guests for its versatility. The warehouse is also sending chicken noodle soup, dried and canned beans, and cornbread mix to our 137 member agencies across the state. In fresh food, agencies are receiving plantains, a staple in many cuisines, as well as spaghetti squash and citrus from Florida.
It’s the donations we receive from supporters like you that enable the RI Food Bank to acquire and distribute healthy, nutritious foods like these!
Empty Bowls: Discounted Tickets Available Until 3/2
Time is running out for you to secure your pre-sale tickets to Empty Bowls! Join us on Tuesday, March 31, 2026 from 6:00 to 8:30 PM at the WaterFire Arts Center for Empty Bowls, an evening celebrating Rhode Island’s vibrant culinary and artistic community, all in support of the RI Community Food Bank. Your ticket includes unlimited tastings from 30 local restaurants and a handcrafted bowl to take home as a reminder that your support helps fill empty bowls in our community. This event will sell out, so purchase by Monday, March 2 to save $10 with pre-sale pricing!
Founded in 1982, the Rhode Island Community Food Bank serves as the central hub for food distribution across its state-wide network of 137 member agencies, ensuring that nutritious food reaches those who need it most in RI. Through donations, federal programs, and community partnerships, the Food Bank works to improve the quality of life for all Rhode Islanders by advancing solutions to the problem of hunger.
The RI Food Bank is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Your donation is tax-deductible as allowed by law.
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Empty Bowls Tickets Now Available!
The following was originally published via our email newsletter. Sign up here to receive these updates in your inbox (we never share your information or spam you).
Handmade Bowls & Gourmet Bites: A Tasty Way to Give.
Join us at Empty Bowls 2026, a celebration of RI’s culinary and artistic talent to benefit the Rhode Island Community Food Bank. Your ticket includes unlimited tastings from 30 local restaurants, plus an artisan-made bowl to take home as a reminder of how your support will help fill the empty bowls in our community.
Purchase your tickets by March 2nd to save $10 on our pre-sale!
All States Materials Group | BankNewport | BayCoast Bank | BNY Wealth | Cameron & Mittleman, LLP | Chisholm, Chisholm and Kirkpatrick | Coastal1 Credit Union | Delta Dental of RI | Dominion Diagnostics | Empire Loan | Hart Design Group | KLR | Navigant Credit Union | Neighborhood Health Plan of RI | Rockland Trust
Founded in 1982, the Rhode Island Community Food Bank serves as the central hub for food distribution across its state-wide network of 137 member agencies, ensuring that nutritious food reaches those who need it most in RI. Through donations, federal programs, and community partnerships, the Food Bank works to improve the quality of life for all Rhode Islanders by advancing solutions to the problem of hunger.
The RI Food Bank is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Your donation is tax-deductible as allowed by law.
Want these stories in your inbox?Sign up to receive our newsletters.
A Reflection: 6 Months of Service in Rhode Island
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A Reflection: 6 Months of Service in Rhode Island
Dear Friends,
It has been six months since I took the helm at the Rhode Island Community Food Bank. Six months of getting to know and exploring my new home state. Six months of convincing my two rescue goldens to embrace our new backyard. Six months of sobering challenges like serving a record-high 102,000 Rhode Islanders in November. Six months of inspiring opportunities, like raising funds to purchase more than $3 million worth of food during the federal government shutdown.
As soon as I landed at TF Green Airport and was greeted by the sweet tones of the resident pianist, I knew I was stepping into something special. Everyone I have met, from my new colleagues to my neighbors, to the hardworking partners in our network of 137 member agencies, has made me feel welcome and has offered support, for me and for our mission, in so many ways.
Coming to New England as a farm girl from North Dakota, it would be easy to feel like an outsider. But I have been so touched by the ways in which the people of this state show up for one another, and for me, even if my midwestern accent gives me away every single time.
I wish I could say that the next six months will be easier than the last. The truth is that more changes to federal nutrition benefits and more complexity in the business of food banking are inevitable. Our fight is far from over. But what I can say with confidence is that there are extraordinary people in this community – donors, legislators, advocates, and partners – who share my fierce commitment to the work.
Times are tough right now for too many of our neighbors. But we can be angry and hold hopeat the same time. And if my first six months on the job have taught me anything, it’s that there is a lot of hope for Rhode Island.
Thank you for the incredibly warm welcome and your continued support.
Resounding Support at the State House on Food Insecurity Awareness Day
Last Tuesday, Food Bank CEO Melissa Cherney addressed a standing-room-only crowd at the State House for our annual Food Insecurity Awareness Day. Policymakers, advocates, and community members gathered for the release of our 2025 Status Report to demonstrate their support for bringing Rhode Island closer to a hunger-free future.
“Hunger has gotten worse over the last five years,” Cherney said. “Today’s event is a call for collective action by all Rhode Islanders.”
In his FY27 budget proposal, Governor Dan McKee included a $2 million allocation for the Food Bank. But with 1 in 3 Rhode Island households experiencing food insecurity, Senator Tiara Mack and Representative Scott Slater submitted bills to increase the Food Bank’s allocation to $3 million.
To read the legislation, and find out how you can support it, click the link below.
One of Rhode Island’s favorite nights that brings together food, creatives, and community is back – the RI Community Food Bank’s Empty Bowls! Join us on Tuesday, March 31st from 6-8:30 PM at the WaterFire Arts Center for unlimited tastings from some of RI’s favorite eateries and receive a handcrafted artisan bowl as a keepsake – all to support filling the bowls of our neighbors. Mark your calendar because this event will sell out: tickets go on sale on Monday, February 16th on our website.
Founded in 1982, the Rhode Island Community Food Bank serves as the central hub for food distribution across its state-wide network of 137 member agencies, ensuring that nutritious food reaches those who need it most. Through donations, federal programs, and community partnerships, the Food Bank works to improve the quality of life for all Rhode Islanders by advancing solutions to the problem of hunger.
The RI Food Bank is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Your donation is tax-deductible as allowed by law.
This month, our teams released two timely tools to support financial stability and long-term health. With tax season right around the corner, our Community Outreach team created a 2025 tax preparation guide featuring free filing options, trusted assistance programs, and key dates. With heart health top of mind this winter, our Community Nutrition team developed an easy-to-use handout on dietary fats, offering tips to reduce saturated fat intake and support cardiovascular wellness. Both resources are available in English and Spanish.
All are encouraged to use and share these resources! Visit our Community Resources and Community Nutrition webpages to view or download the latest materials.
Reminder: Join Us for Food Insecurity Day
On Tuesday, January 27th, the RI Food Bank will convene advocates, policymakers, and community leaders at the Rhode Island State House for Food Insecurity Awareness Day, where we’ll release our latest Status Report on Hunger and spotlight the realities of food insecurity in our state. All are welcome.
Founded in 1982, the Rhode Island Community Food Bank serves as the central hub for food distribution across its state-wide network of 137 member agencies, ensuring that nutritious food reaches those who need it most. Through donations, federal programs, and community partnerships, the Food Bank works to improve the quality of life for all Rhode Islanders by advancing solutions to the problem of hunger.
The RI Food Bank is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Your donation is tax-deductible as allowed by law.
