One Year of Impact: Melissa’s First Year as CEO
One year ago today, Melissa Cherney walked through the doors of the Rhode Island Community Food Bank as CEO for the first time. Since then, she’s traveled the state, gotten to know our member agencies, and has witnessed how Rhode Islanders show up for their neighbors every single day. Melissa calls the last year “unpredictable,” especially in November, when we served an all-time high of 102,000 people during the SNAP benefits pause. But she continues to believe that if any state can solve hunger – it’s Rhode Island.
Watch Melissa’s reflection on her first year and what’s ahead.
Celebrate with Melissa!
Thursday, August 6, 2026
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Founded in 1982, the Rhode Island Community Food Bank is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that works to improve the quality of life for all Rhode Islanders by advancing solutions to the problem of hunger. The Food Bank serves as the central food distribution hub across a statewide network of 137 member agencies. Through donations, federal programs, and community partnerships, in 2025, the Food Bank distributed over 18.6 million pounds of food, 4.5 million pounds of which was fresh produce. The RI Community Food Bank is a member of Feeding America, the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization.
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︱rifoodbank.org︱(401) 942-6325︱200 Niantic Avenue, Providence RI 02907︱contactus@rifoodbank.org