Bank Grant Stocks Healthy Food for Pantry

​BankNewport extended a $5,000 grant to East Bay Food Pantry (EBFP) to help fund their Access Nutrition Initiative, an innovative and award-winning array of programs offering high-quality, healthy foods and nutrition education.   

The primary goal of the Pantry’s Access Nutrition Initiative is to consistently offer whole grains, olive oil, high quality protein and dairy items, and a wide variety of fruits and vegetables in all forms to clients who rely on the EBFP to supplement their food needs.   

EBFP is committed to building a nutrition conscious culture year-round, not just during the growing season.  This holistic approach includes educating staff and volunteers, along with offering activities for clients & children focused on health eating, all designed to make a positive impact on the lives of those most vulnerable Rhode Island families.

EBFP serves over 800 individuals each month, with more than 2,300 East Bay residents receiving assistance from one or more of the comprehensive Access Nutrition Initiative programs throughout the year.  Clients are served free of charge at the Pantry every Wednesday and are also invited to visit on “Fresh Food Fridays” to select available produce and bread. The Thrift Shop is open to the public Wednesday through Saturday, with thrift shop proceeds used to purchase food for the Pantry.

Established in 2009, the East Bay Food Pantry serves over 1,000 low-income, at-risk families and their children residing in East Providence, Barrington, Warren, Bristol, Tiverton, Little Compton and Aquidneck Island.  The Pantry operates with a mission of engaging, educating and empowering the East Bay in creating a hunger-free community. For more information about the East Bay Food Pantry contact 401.396.9490.  

Founded in 1819 and headquartered in Newport, BankNewport offers a full suite of loan and deposit products and services for families and businesses throughout Rhode Island.  In addition, OceanPoint Insurance Agency, Inc., a subsidiary of BankNewport, offers a broad range of property casualty insurance products and a full array of financial services.  With 15 banking offices and $1.4 billion in assets, BankNewport is one of the oldest community banks in the United States and, as a mutual organization, is committed to the financial success of its customers, employees and communities.