National Food Bank Day brings attention to food insecurity in El Paso

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) – This year National Food Bank Day falls on Sept. 4. It is observed annually on the first Friday of September.

It recognizes the critical role food banks play in collecting, sorting, storing and distributing food to individuals and families facing hunger.

El Pasoans Fighting Hunger serves as the regional food bank across El Paso, Hudspeth and Culberson counties. They say about 40% of El Paso County residents experience food insecurity.

The organization distributes food directly to neighbors through its onsite Mercado and Food FARMacy while also supplying a network of community partners, including churches, schools and nonprofit organizations. The national day recognizes the staff, volunteers, donors and community partners who makes that possible

September is also Hunger Action Month, with various events planned to raise money and awareness:

• Sept. 11: Villalobos Pest Control Golf Tournament benefiting El Pasoans Fighting Hunger.
• Sept. 14–26: Chick-fil-A cookie fundraiser at participating Mesa Street, Remcon and Desert Boulevard locations.
• Sept. 24: Fourth annual Noche de Estrellas Reverse Gala and the opening of the Hunger Action Month silent auction.
• Sept. 25: El Paso Locomotive FC fundraising game, with members of the EPFH team serving as honorary conductors.
• Sept. 29: Hunger Action Day and plans to light El Paso’s Star on the Mountain orange.
• Sept.30: Final day of the Hunger Action Month silent auction.

El Pasoans Fighting Hunger says people can get involved by volunteering, donating or organizing a food drive.