Holiday Match Helps Feed Hungry Oklahomans

Nov. 16, 2015 – This holiday season, Oklahomans can double the impact of their gift and feed twice as many hungry Oklahomans. Between November 15 and January 15, every donation to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma will be matched by Chesapeake Energy Corporation and the Cresap Family Foundation, up to $500,000, for a $1 million total impact.

“Your support can make a huge difference to families who struggle to keep food on the table during the holiday season,” said Rodney Bivens, executive director of the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. “Thanks to these generous donors, your holiday gift will go twice as far. Please give the gift of hope to our hungry Oklahoma neighbors.”

The Regional Food Bank typically provides five meals for every dollar donated; however, through this match, a $1 donation will now provide the equivalent of 10 meals for hungry Oklahomans.

“Chesapeake is proud to support the Regional Food Bank’s efforts to feed those most in need during this holiday season,” said Doug Lawler, Chesapeake’s chief executive officer. “The Regional Food Bank makes an incredible impact on our state, and we are pleased to continue our longstanding partnership with the organization. We hope this match encourages our fellow Oklahomans to include the Regional Food Bank in their giving plans so no child, senior citizen or family goes hungry this winter.”

Donations raised through the Holiday Match will provide food for Oklahomans in 53 central and western counties.

“The holiday season is just around the corner and, for many Oklahomans, it’s a time to celebrate with family over a special meal,” said John Cresap with the Cresap Family Foundation. “For those living on limited or fixed incomes, it’s a different story. We hope that this matching gift will inspire the community to come together and support the Regional Food Bank’s efforts to ensure every Oklahoman has food this winter and into the New Year.”

Statewide, one in six Oklahomans has inconsistent access to food. The Regional Food Bank provides enough food to feed 116,000 Oklahomans every week, yet it is not enough. According to the Hunger in Oklahoma Report, 72 percent of clients have had to choose between paying for food and paying for utilities.

“I am on a fixed income,” shared Louise, who visits a partner agency of the Regional Food Bank. “I draw social security, a very small check. My electric bills are eating me alive. Winter is worse than summer. I have rheumatoid arthritis and it hurts to be cold.”

Together, we can make the holidays a little brighter for families struggling to keep food on their table. To make a tax-deductible donation to the Regional Food Bank, call 405.600.3136 or visit regionalfoodbank.org. Donations may also be mailed to:

Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma

Holiday Match

P.O. Box 270968

Oklahoma City, OK, 73137-0968