Riverside, CA, September, 1st, 2026 – This September, during Hunger Action Month (HAM), Feeding America Riverside | San Bernardino (FARSB) is joining the nationwide Feeding America network in calling on the Inland Empire (IE) community to Play Your Part. As the cost of essentials like groceries and energy continue to put pressure on household budgets, everyone can take action to help ensure their neighbors have access to the food they need to thrive.
“Together we can end hunger,” said Denis McDonough, CEO of Feeding America. “It takes people looking out for each other, especially now, as so many families are navigating difficult tradeoffs necessitated by high food prices. This Hunger Action Month, we’re asking everyone to show up for their neighbors facing hunger and play their part. Whether you give, volunteer, speak up, or support your community in another way, your action matters. When neighbors care for neighbors, we strengthen our communities.”
According to the latest data available from Feeding America’s Map the Meal Gap study, 48 million people, including more than 14 million children, experienced food insecurity in 2024, the highest level since 2014. Of the communities FARSB serves, we see food insecurity range from a low of 13.8% in Riverside County to a high of 15.6% in San Bernardino County.
“Ending hunger is only going to happen if our entire community acts together to create lasting change that addresses root causes of hunger,” said Vanesa Rangel-Mercado, Interim CEO at FARSB. “We invite anyone willing to play a part in the solution to turn a single action into impactful, collective action this September.”
People can get involved locally by donating at FeedingIE.org/hungeraction or through the actions below:
Give Food: Host a food drive to collect canned goods.
Give Funds: Donate funds or set up a peer-to-peer fundraiser to ask your community to donate to your fundraiser as a group.
Give Time: Register for a volunteer shift at our Riverside warehouse.
Give Voice: Advocate for hunger-relief policies that boost our mission.
Learn more about how you can take action by visiting: FeedingIE.org/hungeraction
About Feeding America
Rooted in the voices of neighbors facing hunger, Feeding America unites the country ensuring everyone has access to food and a thriving future. We support tens of millions of people as part of a nationwide network of 250+ food banks, 20+ statewide food bank associations, 10+ regional co-ops and 60,000+ agency partners, food pantries and meal programs. Powered by leaders and volunteers embedded in local communities, we are one of the nation’s most effective food distribution systems driving immediate impact today—and a catalyst for long-term change through advocating for legislation that improves food security and work to address its factors. We partner with people experiencing food insecurity, policymakers, organizations and supporters united with the unwavering commitment to provide nourishing food and work to end hunger at its roots so everyone can live fuller, healthier lives. Visit FeedingAmerica.org to learn more.
