Bank Rhode Island recently wrapped up its summer food drive, and the community response was amazing. Customers, employees, and local residents all came together to support families facing hunger. This year, they collected an impressive 6,395 pounds of nonperishable food, surpassing last year’s totals.
Alongside the food donations, BankRI also gave $1,000 grants to 13 local food pantries and contributed $5,000 to the Rhode Island Community Food Bank, a critical resource in the area.
In Cranston, the bank’s branches teamed up with the Comprehensive Community Action Program, while locations in Warwick supported Westbay Community Action by restocking their shelves.
Will Tsonos, BankRI’s president and CEO, expressed gratitude for the community’s spirit. He noted, “This year’s food drive shows the heart of our customers and staff. In tough times, it’s inspiring to witness our community unite.”
The drive started early this year, driven by an urgent need for food assistance. The Rhode Island Community Food Bank reports that one in three households in the state is food insecure. Over 89,000 individuals seek help from this organization every month, a record high.
Kate MacDonald, the food bank’s director of communications, emphasized the importance of community support. “We are incredibly thankful for the generosity of BankRI. With high demand and limited resources, partnerships like these are essential for providing food to those in need.”
The six-week drive kicked off on July 7 and concluded on August 15, with each of the bank’s 22 branches collaborating with local food pantries to ensure that donations would benefit their surrounding communities directly.
This initiative reflects a larger trend where local banks and businesses are stepping up to address food insecurity, especially during economic hardships. Community involvement in food drives not only helps those in need but also strengthens the bonds among residents, fostering a spirit of togetherness.
As we consider the future, maintaining these connections and support systems will be crucial. Data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture shows that food insecurity has increased nationwide, with efforts like this providing a lifeline to many households. The community’s response to BankRI’s drive exemplifies how collective action can make a significant impact.
For more insights on food insecurity trends, visit the Feeding America Research page.
