Food Bank Day highlights hunger crisis affecting 40% of El Paso County

El Pasoans Fighting Hunger marked National Food Bank Day on Sept. 4, observed annually on the first Friday of September to recognize the role food banks play in addressing hunger, according to KVIA.

The regional food bank serves El Paso, Hudspeth and Culberson counties. According to the organization, about 40 percent of El Paso County residents experience food insecurity. El Pasoans Fighting Hunger distributes food through its onsite Mercado and Food FARMacy, and also supplies a network of community partners including churches, schools and nonprofit organizations.

National Food Bank Day recognizes the staff, volunteers, donors and community partners who support these efforts. September is also designated Hunger Action Month, with multiple fundraising and awareness events scheduled throughout the month.

Planned events include a golf tournament Sept. 11 by Villalobos Pest Control benefiting El Pasoans Fighting Hunger; a Chick-fil-A cookie fundraiser Sept. 14–26 at participating Mesa Street, Remcon and Desert Boulevard locations; the fourth annual Noche de Estrellas Reverse Gala and opening of a silent auction Sept. 24; an El Paso Locomotive FC fundraising game Sept. 25 with EPFH team members serving as honorary conductors; and Hunger Action Day on Sept. 29, when El Paso's Star on the Mountain will be lit orange. The silent auction closes Sept. 30.

El Pasoans Fighting Hunger said people can support the organization by volunteering, donating or organizing a food drive.