Fourteen community-based food pantries across the state have received donated food and funds to support their work to help those facing hunger thanks to Bank Rhode Island (BankRI). The Bank recently concluded a six-week food drive at all 21 of its branches, leading to more than 4,000 pounds for the pantries. Additionally, each pantry received a $1,000 grant for food acquisition. BankRI also provided $10,000 in funding to the Rhode Island Community Food Bank.

In Cranston, the Bank’s four branches teamed up to support Comprehensive Community Action Program, while its Warwick locations helped to restock the shelves at Westbay Community Action.

“BankRI customers, colleagues, and local community members are incredible in helping their fellow Rhode Islanders, and we all understand hunger is an issue that can affect anyone at any time,” said Will Tsonos, BankRI’s President and CEO. “I appreciate everyone who supported this year’s drive. Together, we put food on the shelves of local pantries at a time when so many of our neighbors need it most.”

Hunger in the Ocean State is at an all-time high. According to the Rhode Island Community Food Bank, its network of member food pantries served 80,000 people per month from March through June, a 25 percent increase over the same time period last year.

Beginning July 17 and continuing until August 18, each BankRI branch partnered with a food pantry in its community to collect food on their behalf and ensure donations remained local to help area residents.

“We are grateful to BankRI for engaging their customers and employees in such a successful food drive for the Food Bank’s member agencies,” said Food Bank CEO Andrew Schiff. “These contributions of food and funds will do so much to help families that are struggling to afford enough food right now.”