Serving up support during Hunger Action Month

Sep 08, 2026

NS volunteers at Greater Chicago Food Depository

This Hunger Action Month, Norfolk Southern employees are joining local food banks and hunger-relief organizations to help expand food access for families and communities.

Hunger Action Month is an opportunity to spotlight the need, but our work continues throughout the year. In 2026, we are providing more than $1 million in grants to 55 organizations in 19 states, reaching more than 600 counties. That brings our total giving to address food insecurity to more than $4.1 million since 2021, the equivalent of approximately 82 million meals.

Why it matters: Access to nutritious food is essential for people to thrive. Food banks and hunger-relief organizations help close gaps for children, families, and seniors, providing support during everyday challenges and times of crisis.

Showing up in our communities

Across five cities, 60 employees have contributed 162 hours of service with local hunger-relief partners:

Atlanta: 4 employees, 13 hours with Open Hand Atlanta
Birmingham: 19 employees, 38 hours with Community Food Bank of Central Alabama
Chicago: 7 employees, 21 hours with Greater Chicago Food Depository
Cleveland: 20 employees, 50 hours with Greater Cleveland Food Bank
Pittsburgh: 10 employees, 40 hours with Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank

NS volunteers for Hunger Action Month 2026

What we’re saying

“Food banks and hunger-relief organizations play an important role in strengthening the communities we serve. Hunger Action Month is an opportunity for our employees to show up alongside these organizations, building on the support we provide throughout the year to help expand access to food for families in need.” – Kristin Wong, Director Norfolk Southern Foundation & Community Impact

“Meeting the need for food assistance takes all of us. We are grateful for Norfolk Southern's commitment to helping the Community Food Bank reach more families, expand access to nutritious food, and make a meaningful difference for neighbors across central Alabama. We truly are better together.” – Nicole Williams, CEO, Community Food Bank of Central Alabama

From funding to impact

In 2025, food banks and hunger-relief organizations supported through our Thriving Communities Grant Program reported providing more than 26.2 million meals and serving 2.19 million people. The funding helped expand mobile food pantries, support school meal programs, rescue surplus groceries, and strengthen emergency food assistance efforts.

Learn more about our work to build thriving communities here.