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Chesapeake Energy Match Helps Raise $700,000

Jan. 18, 2010

OKLAHOMA CITY – From November 4 through December 31st, Chesapeake Energy matched every monetary gift donated to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, dollar for dollar, up to $100,000. The Regional Food Bank received more than $700,000 in direct response to the match opportunity from Chesapeake Energy, which will provide 4.9 million meals to hungry Oklahomans in 53 central and western counties.

"During these difficult times for families across our state it is a great pleasure for Chesapeake to help raise awareness of the increasing needs for food in the 53 counties the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma serves," said Teresa Rose, director of community relations at Chesapeake. "Over the years, Chesapeake and its employees have developed a strong partnership with the Food Bank because we believe providing food to hungry Oklahomans is essential to building stronger, healthier communities."

During the holiday months, food distribution was up 22 percent compared to the same time last year, but monetary donations were down. This match by Chesapeake Energy has helped close the gap between the increase in demand and the increase in distribution.

"Chesapeake Energy is a long-time supporter of the Regional Food Bank and we are unbelievably grateful for their generosity," said Rodney Bivens, executive director of the Regional Food Bank. "This match offer from Chesapeake Energy will enable us to reach even more families, seniors and children in need this winter."

Half a million Oklahomans struggle with hunger every day. In fact, Oklahoma is one of the hungriest states in the nation – ranking sixth in food insecurity. During fiscal year 2009, the Regional Food Bank distributed over 28.5 million pounds of food and products to hungry Oklahomans in 53 central and western counties.

For more information about the Regional Food Bank visit regionalfoodbank.org or call 405.972.1111. For more information about Chesapeake Energy visit chk.com.