CENTRAL FALLS – The city of Central Falls today celebrated the launch of the new Mobile Food Pantry, a responsive initiative created in partnership with Centreville Bank Charitable Foundation and Central Falls Foundation that will bring fresh, nutritious food directly into neighborhoods, making it easier for seniors, families, and residents facing barriers to food access.
In Central Falls, one of America’s most densely populated cities and Rhode Island’s lowest-income community, food insecurity remains a significant challenge, states a release. Nearly one in four Central Falls residents relies on SNAP benefits, and for many households, transportation can be one of the biggest barriers to accessing healthy food. The Mobile Food Pantry is designed to help close that gap by delivering food directly into the community.
The initiative reflects the city’s continued commitment to ensuring every resident has access to basic necessities through strong partnerships with the Centreville Bank Charitable Foundation, the Central Falls Foundation, and its many community partners.
“No one in our city should have to worry about where their next meal is coming from,” said Mayor Maria Rivera in a statement. “For many of our seniors and families, transportation can be just as much of a barrier as the rising cost of food. Our new Mobile Food Pantry is about removing those barriers and making sure our neighbors have what they need. I’m grateful to the Centreville Bank Charitable Foundation, the Central Falls Foundation, and all our community partners whose generosity and commitment made this possible. This is what happens when a community comes together to take care of one another.”
The initiative reflects a shared commitment among local leaders, community organizations, and philanthropic partners to improve quality of life and ensure residents have access to essential resources.
“Access to healthy food is fundamental to building strong, resilient communities,” said Hal Horvat, chairperson of the Centreville Bank Charitable Foundation and president and CEO, and chairperson of the board of Centreville Bank. “We’re proud to support a program that removes barriers, serves people with dignity, and delivers critical resources directly to those who need them most. This initiative demonstrates what’s possible when community partners come together around a common goal and invest in the well-being of our neighbors.”
“Today marks a milestone for the Central Falls Foundation and for the families we proudly serve. This Mobile Food Pantry is a symbol of hope, partnership, and innovation in addressing food insecurity throughout our community,” said Bridgette Duquette, executive director, Central Falls Foundation. “We are deeply grateful to the Centreville Bank Foundation for believing in our vision and helping make it a reality. Together, we are ensuring that more families have reliable access to healthy food while strengthening the bonds that make Central Falls such a caring and resilient community.”
As part of its support, the Centreville Bank Charitable Foundation also provided reusable shopping bags to support pantry operations and enhance the participant experience.
The Mobile Food Pantry is now serving residents through regularly scheduled distributions in Central Falls this summer.
The Centreville Bank Charitable Foundation supports nonprofit organizations and community initiatives that improve the quality of life for individuals and families throughout Rhode Island and Connecticut. Through strategic investments and partnerships, the Foundation advances programs focused on financial well-being, food security, housing, education, and community vitality.
