8th Annual Million Meals Gala Raises Over 123k to Address Holiday Hunger

Feeding America Riverside | San Bernardino (FARSB) hosted its 8th annual Million Meals Gala on Saturday, November 6, 2021, at its distribution center located in Riverside. Over 180 attendees and sponsors raised $123K which is equivalent to over 800,000 meals provided to Inland Empire families facing food insecurity.  This year’s Casino Royale themed gala featured casino game tables, live music, exclusive live and silent auction items, and special guest keynote speaker, Claire Babineaux-Fontenot – CEO of Feeding America National Organization – the nation’s largest domestic hunger relief organization and second largest US charity.  In addition, FARSB recognized the following 2021 honorees for their distinguished partnerships and local community work: Choice Market, Hot 103.9FM, Target, and Triumph Club of Southern California.  “Community partners are the backbone to what we do and we wanted to recognize those who have gone above and beyond in helping to feed our community,” said Stephanie Otero, FARSB CEO. “We appreciate individuals and organizations who support FARSB’s mission to end hunger in our community.” Sponsors included San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, Wells Fargo, Dr. Garde & Dr. Lepkowski, IEHP, Hodgdon Group, Anthem, City National Bank, Molina Healthcare, Majestic Realty Foundation Southern California Fleet Services, Jason & Erin Brooks, Kaiser Permanente, Safeway Electric, Barons Market, Mike & Clara Vanderpool, Manheim, and Advanco Fire Protection. Additional in-kind support included Inland Empire Community News, SoCal Beer, and Mayesh. “It was great to be part of such an amazing community event! Feeding America [Riverside | San Bernardino] is giving a hand up to our community by addressing the food insecurity challenges that our community faces,” said San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, Vice President of Tribal Brand Marketing & Strategic Initiatives, Jessica Stops. Community members who were not able to attend the event, can still contribute to the fight against local hunger by visiting www.FeedingIE.org/gala. FARSB thanks the many organizations and individuals who supported its hunger relief efforts this holiday season.  For more information on the Inland Empire regional food bank visit www.FeedingIE.org. For more local news and information click here.