Nov. 14, 2022 – Today, the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma announced a partnership with Google.org, Google’s philanthropic arm, and Feeding America® to deliver meals to Oklahomans in need of food assistance and build long-term technology solutions to scale their impact and provide their service area with greater access to resources.

At an event Monday, Oklahoma Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell announced that Google.org will donate $250,000 to the Regional Food Bank. This announcement is part of a larger initiative from Google.org and Feeding America to help provide 50 million meals to communities across the United States.

“I am proud to hear the Regional Food Bank is partnering with Google.org to serve families struggling with food insecurity this holiday season,” said Oklahoma Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell. “Google has strong ties with Oklahoma, and their continued investment in our state has been a major source of economic growth. I am confident that this partnership will create a better future for Oklahomans in need.”

“Through its partnership with the Regional Food Bank, Google is helping make a difference in the lives of hardworking families who are dealing with rising food costs,” said Congresswoman Stephanie Bice. “The Regional Food Bank is leading the fight against hunger in 53 Oklahoma counties, and this partnership will expand their capacity to serve our state and provide access to much-needed resources. I’m grateful to Google.org and the Regional Food Bank for teaming up to help our neighbors facing hunger during the holidays.”

Today, 34 million Americans, including nine million children, are facing food insecurity. Among Feeding America network food banks, 90 percent report an increased or sustained need over the last month. Food banks themselves face mounting headwinds as food donations decline and costs rise for freight, food purchase and every other aspect of operations. The Regional Food Bank has seen this need first hand. Earlier this year, once federal COVID assistance programs ended, there was a sharp increase in neighbors seeking food assistance. In several communities, that need rose as much as 50%.

“The Regional Food Bank is very appreciative of Google.org’s investment in our work that will help further our efficiency and impact in the fight against hunger,” said Stacy Dykstra, chief executive officer of the Regional Food Bank. “We are happy to welcome anyone who wants to help us realize our vision of an Oklahoma where no one goes hungry.”

Google has seen the need reflected in Google Search Trends on a national and local level in Oklahoma. Over the past 12 months, Google searches for “regional food bank of Oklahoma” increased by 5,000% in Oklahoma. Overall, Oklahoma is the fifth top state searching for “food shortage” in 2022 and the top state searching for “free thanksgiving dinner” over the past five years.

Additionally, Oklahomans searching for “where to donate food near me” increased by 770% over the past five years.

“Addressing food insecurity requires a sustained and coordinated approach. We’re proud to partner with Feeding America to deliver over 50 million meals to people in need, and to work with them to strengthen their technology infrastructure,” said Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google and Alphabet. “We’re also making our products, like Search and Maps, more helpful to people searching for resources or ways to give back.”

The Regional Food Bank will also receive donated Search Ads to connect people looking for help with resources, provide avenues for others to give back and drive food security awareness nationwide.

The Regional Food Bank encourages volunteers, particularly in months following the holidays. Visit rfbo.org/volunteer for more information. To learn more about hosting a food drive, visit rfbo.org/foodandfunds.