At Food Bank For New York City, we proudly celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to recognize the immense contributions of Hispanic communities across the five boroughs. From September 15 to October 15, we honor the rich culture, history, and traditions of Hispanic New Yorkers—while also raising awareness of the challenges many continue to face, including food insecurity.
Food Insecurity in Hispanic Communities
Hispanic communities have long been at the vibrant heart of New York City. However, many Hispanic families in NYC struggle with food insecurity, a challenge that has only deepened in recent years. Data regularly shows that communities of color, including Hispanic households, tend to experience food insecurity at significantly higher rates than the general population.
- Currently, 1 in 4 Hispanic households are experiencing hunger in NYC with the overall poverty rate soaring at 36% higher than the city average.
- Rising food costs and lingering impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic have hit Hispanic families hard, leaving many fighting to make ends meet.
Language barriers, immigration status, and systemic inequities only compound the issue, making it difficult for some to access the nutritious food and resources they need to thrive. That’s where Food Bank For New York City steps in, to ensure that no one goes hungry, regardless of their background or circumstances.
How Food Bank For New York City Supports Hispanic New Yorkers
We partner with over 800 community-based organizations across the five boroughs, many of which serve predominantly Hispanic neighborhoods. Together, we distribute millions of pounds of food each year, including culturally relevant staples that reflect the preferences of the diverse communities we serve. From the Bronx to Queens, our efforts focus on providing fresh, nutritious food to families in need while addressing the root causes of food insecurity through nutrition education, advocacy, and community engagement.
During Hispanic Heritage Month and beyond, we remain committed to standing with the Hispanic community, delivering critical resources, and amplifying the voices of those we serve.
Meet the Pino Family
For Jorge and Melissa Pino, working together at Food Bank For New York City has always felt like a natural fit. Both children of immigrants with a passion for serving others, this dynamic duo has taken lessons learned from their civic-minded parents into the next generation by involving their own kids in the work they do at Food Bank. Watch the video to unlock the Pino family’s full story!
How You Can Help
Here are some ways you can support our mission and make an impact for Hispanic households across NYC:
- Donate: Every dollar you give helps Food Bank For NYC provide up to 5 nutritious meals to families in need.
- Volunteer: Food Bank For New York City offers numerous volunteer opportunities. You can join us at our Community Kitchen & Pantry in Harlem or at our Warehouse & Distribution Center in the Bronx to help pack food for distribution.
- Advocate: Help raise awareness about food insecurity and its disproportionate impact on Hispanic New Yorkers. Follow us on social media, share our posts, and amplify the conversation.
- Partner: If you’re part of a business, organization, or community group, consider partnering with us to support Hispanic families across NYC. Together, we can drive change for those who need it most.