Transcript:
Host: Gonna give a warm welcome to our next guest, Leslie Gordon. She’s president and CEO of Food Bank for New York City. Leslie, welcome to the show.
Leslie: Good morning. Delighted to be here. Thanks for having us.
Host: Leslie, it’s National Food Bank Day. Can you tell us what it is and why it matters?
Leslie: Sure. National Food Bank Day was founded in 2017 by a food bank in Arizona. Today, it honors the work that food banks across the country do to keep people fed. It’s also a chance to raise awareness about food insecurity—why it matters and how people can help their neighbors through donations, volunteering, or advocacy. Millions of Americans—more than 45 million—rely on food banks every year, so this day highlights the critical role they play in supporting vulnerable communities.
Host: Let’s talk about the business of food banking. It’s a massive operation. What does it take to run it successfully?
Leslie: The term “food bank” can be misleading. Unlike a financial bank, we don’t store food for long—it moves quickly. We’re essentially a logistics operation, almost like the Amazon of food banking. Every day, our procurement team connects with regional farmers, manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers to pull together food that matters—fresh produce, meat, poultry, fish, dairy, eggs—anything you’d find in a grocery store, we’ve got it.
Once it comes in, we quality-check it, store it safely, and then distribute it through nearly 800 partners across New York City: food pantries, community kitchens, shelters, senior centers, hospitals, and clinics. Every day, 30 to 40 refrigerated trucks crisscross the city delivering meals to kids, adults, and newcomers alike.
Host: It’s a tough situation, and it’s worse than it’s ever been. Why is food insecurity rising in New York and beyond?
Leslie: Wages haven’t kept up with the cost of living. Groceries, housing, electricity—they’ve all gone up, but pay hasn’t. Families have to do more with less, which is why they turn to Food Bank for New York City for food and other resources to stay financially stable. In some boroughs, a family needs to earn around $100,000 a year just to meet basic needs, and many don’t. Cuts to safety net programs like SNAP only make it harder.
Host: There are many policy proposals to address food insecurity. Which ones could really move the needle?
Leslie: SNAP is our country’s most effective food security program—it outpaces the work of food banks nationwide. Revisiting SNAP policies is critical. The Farm Bill also matters, covering school meals and USDA programs that support both agriculture and food banks. These programs need attention, and people can help by talking to federal lawmakers. Real-life stories about families impacted by policy are what really make a difference.
Host: This portion of the business briefing is brought to you by Norwegian Cruise Line. Escape to the great life on Great Stirrup Cay at ncl.com. Back to Leslie—how can people help?
Leslie: There are many ways. Advocate for policies, donate, or volunteer. Food banks are efficient—every dollar can provide up to five meals. Volunteers as young as five can help, and sometimes kids are more passionate than adults! You can also amplify our message on social media. Learn more at foodbanknyc.org, or find a food bank near you at feedingamerica.org.
Host: Leslie, thank you so much for joining us today.
Leslie: My pleasure. Have a great weekend.
Host: That’s Leslie Gordon, president and CEO of Food Bank for New York City.
