Melissa Cherney
Chief Executive Officer
As I complete my fifth month at the Rhode Island Community Food Bank, I can’t help but reflect on recent events and how we all have risen to the challenge with heart, grit and empathy. We experienced a crisis during the federal government shutdown and lapse in SNAP benefits, yet the community stepped up in incredible ways to ensure no Rhode Islander went hungry.
Fiscal year 2025, before my arrival, was certainly a challenging year, both for the Food Bank and for the communities we serve. Families felt the effects of a tumultuous economy, and we worked hard to serve more people with fewer resources. But with the help of our incredible staff, the support of our community, and the generosity of our donors, together, we accomplished so much and should be proud.
I may not know what lies ahead of us in 2026, but I do know that if we all stand together, we can overcome any challenge. I have a mantra from the late Senator Paul Wellstone of Minnesota: “We all do better when we ALL do better.” We have been saying that a lot around here lately. It’s going to take all of us, united in our efforts, to navigate the challenges ahead and ensure every Rhode Islander has access to the food they need to thrive.
Jyothi Subramaniam
Board President
When Andrew Schiff told me he was retiring from his role as CEO of the Food Bank to spend more time with his family, it felt like the end of an era. And it was! What Andrew brought to this organization, even in his final months before sailing into retirement, was nothing short of extraordinary. Over 18 years, his passion for the mission, and his quiet, steady leadership made its mark on the Food Bank in ways both big and small.
Much of FY25 was spent both honoring Andrew’s legacy and searching for someone to fill his very large shoes. When we chose Melissa, a veteran food banker from North Dakota as our next CEO, we couldn’t have known her first 6 months on the job would be filled with the kind of unprecedented challenges many CEOs only see a handful of in their career. But Melissa has risen to the challenge with strength and grace, hitting the ground running in Rhode Island.
As we look back on what we’ve accomplished, I’m excited to look ahead and see what the Food Bank’s next chapter holds for us. As always, we’re deeply grateful for your continued support.