Nov. 2, 2023 – The Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma’s Food for Kids Match raised more than $1 million to fight childhood hunger in central and western Oklahoma. The Food for Kids Match was made possible thanks to the Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma, Chesapeake Energy, Mark and Beth Brewer, Dolese Bros. Corp, Energy Transfer, David Gorham, David and Lezlie Hudiburg and Marathon Oil. KOCO News 5, official television sponsor of the Food for Kids Match, promoted the match with special programming dedicated to fighting childhood hunger in Oklahoma.

“At home or at school, it is imperative that we help the next generation of Oklahomans thrive. Thanks to the generosity of Oklahomans through the Food for Kids Match, we will be able to provide nutritious meals to children living with food insecurity,” said Stacy Dykstra, chief executive officer of the Regional Food Bank. “We are so grateful for our generous match sponsors for making this campaign a success.”

Every donation to the Regional Food Bank’s Food for Kids Programs was matched up to $300,000 during August and September, thanks to match sponsors like the Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma.

“The Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma and Masonic Lodges across the state were honored to commit our efforts to the Food for Kids Match campaign again this year,” said John Logan, executive director of the Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma. “Supporting the Food for Kids Programs ensures food-insecure children in our communities have a reliable resource for nutritious meals throughout the year. Together we can feed our children and support the future of Oklahoma.”

In total, the 2023 Food for Kids Match raised $1,043,007. The Food for Kids Programs are the most expensive programs offered through the Regional Food Bank, costing more than $2.5 million a year to operate. Last school year, the Regional Food Bank provided over 2 million meals through its four Food for Kids Programs: The Backpack Program, the School Pantry Program, Kids Cafés and the Summer Feeding Program.

KOCO joined the Food for Kids Match as the official broadcast partner for the second year in a row. As the official broadcast partner, KOCO featured stories highlighting the impact of the Food for Kids Programs and promoted the match during newscasts. In addition, KOCO employees also volunteered at the Regional Food Bank, helping package children’s meals.