R.I Community Food Bank begins annual holiday drive

PROVIDENCE, R.I (WLNE) – At a time when they are distributing 30% more food than in previous years, the Rhode Island Community Food Bank kicked off its annual holiday drive on Monday.

According to the Community Food Bank, the increase of food distribution is due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Since the outbreak of the pandemic, we’ve seen a huge increase in the number of Rhode Islanders seeking food assistance,” said Food Bank CEO Andrew Schiff. “And we know that demand only increases during the winter months. We have a long road ahead of us.”

Instead of asking for food items, the Food Bank is asking for monetary donations so they can purchase food in bulk.

“We’re moving food in such large quantities that we’re purchasing in bulk,” said Schiff.

“On the plus side, we’re able to acquire food at substantial discounts and we can choose nutritious items that people need the most, especially during a public health crisis”, he continued.

Stop & Shop donated 1,000 frozen turkeys as part of the Turkey Express campaign they run every year to assist with the holiday drive.

According to the Food Bank, the turkeys will be distributed through its network to ensure that families receive them in time for Thanksgiving.

The Rhode Island Community Food Bank serves 68,000 each month across the state.

©WLNE-TV/ABC6 2020