RI Community Food Bank Braces for SNAP Cuts
Nearly 143,000 Rhode Islanders Will Lose Food Assistance
PROVIDENCE – (October 28, 2025) The Rhode Island Community Food Bank released the following statement from CEO Melissa Cherney in response to the ongoing government shutdown and threat to nutrition assistance benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP:
“Nationwide, 42 million Americans are on the brink of hunger. That includes nearly 143,000 Rhode Islanders who will lose the lifeline provided by SNAP.
“We are facing a perfect storm that will have devastating consequences on our state and in our communities. We were already serving a record breaking 89,000 Rhode Islanders every month, with less food than in previous years. When you add in the fact that, as of Saturday, November 1, the SNAP safety net will disappear, we are in a hunger crisis. The need is greater than ever.
“I join my colleagues across the country in calling on Congress to take action on behalf of the people who need it most, and I share my deep gratitude to Rhode Island’s Congressional delegation for their efforts to avoid this disaster. Just as importantly, I call on all Rhode Islanders to do what you can to help.
- Make a donation to the Rhode Island Community Food Bank
- Donate food to your local food pantry
- Link those who need help to food assistance by sharing the available resources, starting with our website at RIFoodBank.org/shutdown
“Everything helps – and we are going to need all the help we can get to meet this urgent moment.”
Founded in 1982 and headquartered in Providence, RI, the Rhode Island Community Food Bank (“the Food Bank” or “RI Food Bank”) serves as the central hub for food distribution across its state-wide network of 147 member agencies/food pantries, 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.
Rhode Island Community Food Bank │ 200 Niantic Avenue, Providence RI 02907 │ (401) 942-6325 (main) │ rifoodbank.org