Giving with Gopin: El Pasoan’s Fighting Hunger Food Bank | Stock the Shelves Campaign

The newest episode of Giving with Gopin highlights the powerful work being done by El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank and its ongoing mission to combat food insecurity across the region.

Serving El Paso, Culberson, and Hudspeth Counties, the food bank is marking its 10-year anniversary—a major milestone for an organization that has quickly become one of the most impactful in the country. Despite being one of the youngest food banks in the United States, it ranks among the top in distribution nationwide.

That impact is driven by a sobering reality: 1 in 3 people in the region faces food insecurity.

The episode focuses on the organization’s “Stock the Shelves” campaign, which takes place during one of the most challenging times of the year. While many people give generously during the holidays, donations often drop off in the early months—even as the need continues to rise.

For many families, visiting the food bank is not a long-term solution but rather a temporary lifeline. Most individuals rely on the food bank only a handful of times per year, often after experiencing unexpected life events such as job loss, medical expenses, or financial hardship.

What sets this food bank apart is not just its scale, but its innovative approach to serving the community. In addition to traditional distribution, the organization operates a large outdoor “Mercado,” allowing families to access food in a more accessible and dignified way.

Those who visit can leave with enough food to support a family of four for an entire week—providing critical relief during difficult times.

Beyond food distribution, the organization has expanded its impact through several community-focused programs, including workforce training initiatives, senior delivery services, and its Food FARMacy program, which provides tailored nutrition support for individuals with medical conditions such as diabetes.

The food bank also features a teaching kitchen and volunteer opportunities, further strengthening its connection with the community.

One of the most powerful aspects of the organization’s work is its efficiency. Because it relies heavily on donated food, every dollar contributed can be stretched significantly—turning $1 into as many as 7 meals for families in need.

This makes community support essential to sustaining operations and meeting growing demand.

Through Giving with Gopin, the Law Offices of Michael J. Gopin continues to spotlight organizations that are making a real difference in El Paso. By sharing these stories, the series helps raise awareness and encourages the community to get involved.

Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, every effort contributes to the fight against food insecurity.

🎥 Watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/MPz2HtTXbyc

Michael J. Gopin

Michael J. Gopin has practiced law in El Paso since 1987. Even after more than 30 years, he still remembers his first jury case. It was two weeks after receiving his license, when he represented a person whose life had been forever changed after being blinded in a work-related incident...