Oregon Food Bank is Rising for All because no one should be hungry

Today, as we move forward from the Presidential election and changes in Senate leadership, we reflect on the strength that comes from our many backgrounds and the shared values that unite us. Our differences enrich us, but what binds us together is even more powerful.

We know that this moment brings uncertainty and fear for many in our community. But we know that fear does not serve our communities. We choose constructive dialogue, thoughtful action and a commitment to supporting one another through this moment.

Oregon Food Bank strongly reiterates our commitment to our community — especially our communities who are disproportionately impacted by hunger. We will continue to ensure that food is available for those experiencing hunger at our network of 21 regional food banks and 1,400+ free food markets, pantries and meal sites.

Find free food near you — no documentation, proof of gender identity or proof of immigration status is necessary.

In this moment, we are reminded that we cannot end hunger with food alone. The system is working exactly as intended — our primary equity constituencies are much more likely to experience hunger because of their race, gender identity, being a single parent or where they were born. Those factors alone make it more likely to face housing discrimination, health and wage disparities, skyrocketing childcare costs or barriers to safety net programs like SNAP (formerly known as food stamps).

The incoming Trump Administration has promised actions that will cause harm to our primary equity constituencies and undermine critical safety nets like SNAP. This is why it is absolutely critical that here in Oregon we create a state program, Food for All Oregonians, to ensure that our youth and elders, including immigrants, have access to the food they need to thrive.

Oregon Food Bank is united with our communities through hope driven by the unwavering dedication to ensuring access to food for all in the community and our belief that food is a human right. Our goals are systemic and provide a national model for solving food insecurity and its causes, led by people who have lived experience of hunger and its root causes.

We are Rising for All. Donate today to expand food access and help end hunger and its root causes.

Let’s take care of each other today, and look forward to addressing the cost of food, housing and health care that drive hunger for people who have lived here for years AND for families and individuals who’ve just immigrated to Oregon.

Together with our communities, we are ready to meet the challenges and transitions ahead — we are Rising for All… because no one should be hungry.