RI Community Food Bank hosts open house on Saturday, December 9

PROVIDENCE – On Saturday, December 9 from 9 am to 12 pm, the Rhode Island Community Food Bank will open its doors for the annual Holiday Food Drive & Open House. Guests will be invited to take tours and enjoy holiday music and cheer at the Food Bank located at 200 Niantic Avenue in Providence.

Donations of non- perishable food are requested to help the Food Bank build up its supplies for the winter ahead. Most needed items include: canned tuna, peanut butter, canned fruits and vegetables, dried or canned beans, whole wheat pasta, brown rice, healthy breakfast cereal, and canned soups, stews or chili.

“Once again this year we are opening our doors to the community so they can learn more about the work we do to provide food for our neighbors in need.” said Andrew Schiff, Chief Executive Officer of the Rhode Island Community Food Bank. “Everyone is welcome to take a tour, enjoy some music and refreshments, and donate a non- perishable food item to help ensure no one goes hungry this holiday season.”

Music will feature the a cappella group, VoX: Voices of Christmas. Pawtucket Red Sox mascot Paws will be mingling with guests and children will be able to “touch a forklift” and have their picture taken. Refreshments will be pro- vided by the Food Bank’s Community Kitchen culinary job training program and Community Cooking nutrition education team. The family- friendly event is free and no registration is required.

Currently, the Food Bank serves 57,000 Rhode Islanders each month through its network of member agencies. One in three served is a child under the age of 18. One in five is a senior 60 years of age or older. Last year, the Food Bank distributed nearly 9.5 million pounds of food through its network of agencies around the state.

For more information about the Food Bank’s Board of Directors, visit: rifoodbank. org.