A Message from Our CEO
Dear Friends,
It is an honor to introduce myself as the new CEO of the Rhode Island Community Food Bank.
Just last month, I moved to Rhode Island from North Dakota, where I spent the past 18 years at the Great Plains Food Bank, serving the last four years as CEO. In that time, I had the privilege of working alongside passionate people committed to ending hunger. I am eager to meet and collaborate with our champions here in the Ocean State – and beyond. As the incoming chair of Feeding America’s Policy Engagement and Advocacy Committee, I work with advocates nationwide, and we will tap into those connections on behalf of our work locally.
The Rhode Island Community Food Bank has a proud tradition of statewide reach and impact. Across our network, we remain deeply committed to building upon that strong legacy. Together, with our team, partners, member agencies, volunteers, and supporters, we will continue to advance our mission of ensuring no Rhode Islander goes hungry.
Thank you for welcoming me into this incredible community. I’m energized by the work ahead and what we can accomplish, together.
I look forward to meeting many of you in the weeks and months to come and, in the meantime, please consider getting involved by making a donation to the Food Bank today, or volunteering with one of our member agencies.
In partnership,
Melissa Cherney
Chief Executive Officer, Rhode Island Community Food Bank
New Research: When Food Costs Rise, Families Fall Behind
September is Hunger Action Month, and all month long, we’ll be sharing stories and information that reveal what hunger looks like in our state.
Researchers at Brown University’s School of Public Health have partnered with Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island to conduct “Rhode Island Voices,” a statewide survey designed to capture the lived experiences of those experiencing food insecurity in our state. The data tells a story of Rhode Islanders making tough choices when it comes to their spending and eating habits in light of a rising cost of living.
According to the research, nearly 50% of Rhode Islanders surveyed in Rhode Island Voices are buying less food due to the high cost of groceries. We sat down with Shelby, a guest at one of our member agency food pantries, who shared some of what she’s experienced recently: “Grocery prices are way up,” she remarked. “I fell behind with everything — everything — and it’s been really, really tough.”
Founded in 1982, 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, 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︱rifoodbank.org︱(401) 942-6325︱200 Niantic Avenue, Providence RI 02907︱contactus@rifoodbank.org
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