Rice for Resilience: Riviana’s ‘Jars of Hope’ Fuels California Food Banks & Sustainable Giving

Los Angeles, CA – November 10, 2025 – As food insecurity continues to impact communities across California, one company is taking a unique approach to tackling hunger: a ‘buy one, donate one’ campaign that's proving both effective and sustainable. Riviana Foods, a leading rice and pasta manufacturer, is currently running its second annual ‘Jars of Hope’ initiative, partnering with the California Association of Food Banks (CAFB) to deliver much-needed rice to families in need.

This year’s campaign builds on the success of last year’s efforts, which raised $125,000 in monetary donations and equivalent value in product. For every jar of participating RiceSelect rice purchased in California, Riviana donates a jar to the CAFB network, bolstering food bank supplies at a critical time.

Beyond the Donation: A Model for Sustainable Giving

While many companies engage in philanthropic efforts, Riviana’s approach stands out for its direct link between consumer purchase and social impact. “The simplicity of the program is what makes it so effective,” notes one industry observer. “Consumers are actively participating in the solution, knowing their purchase directly translates to a donation.”

This isn’t merely a feel-good campaign; it’s a strategic effort addressing a specific need. “Rice is consistently among the most requested items by food banks,” explains a CAFB representative, “but often, specialty varieties like those offered by RiceSelect aren't regularly donated.” This highlights the initiative's importance in diversifying food bank offerings and providing access to higher-quality staples.

California’s Hunger Crisis: A Growing Challenge

The timing of ‘Jars of Hope’ is particularly crucial given the ongoing economic challenges facing California. Rising food prices, coupled with lingering effects of the pandemic, have pushed more families into food insecurity. Recent data indicates a significant increase in demand for food assistance across the state, putting a strain on already-stretched food bank resources.

“We’re seeing more and more families who have never needed food assistance before,” shares a volunteer at a local food bank. “They’re working families, seniors on fixed incomes… it's heartbreaking.”

The situation is further complicated by recent disruptions to food supply chains and the potential for future climate-related events to impact agricultural production. This underscores the importance of building resilient food systems and ensuring a stable supply of essential staples like rice.

Riviana's Commitment to Sustainability

Beyond addressing immediate hunger needs, Riviana Foods demonstrates a broader commitment to sustainability. As a subsidiary of Ebro Foods, S.A., the company is aligned with Ebro’s “Towards 2030” plan, focusing on responsible sourcing, reducing environmental impact, and promoting community wellbeing.

“Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword for us,” states a Riviana spokesperson. “It’s integral to our business model. We're committed to producing high-quality products in a way that protects the planet and supports the communities where we operate.”

This commitment is reflected in the company’s efforts to promote sustainable rice farming practices, reduce water consumption, and minimize waste throughout its supply chain. Riviana also actively partners with local farmers and research institutions to develop innovative solutions for sustainable agriculture.

A Unique Approach in a Crowded Landscape

While many food companies contribute to hunger relief, Riviana’s ‘Jars of Hope’ distinguishes itself through its direct consumer engagement. Unlike traditional product donations or monetary contributions, this campaign empowers consumers to be active participants in the solution.

“We’ve seen a lot of different approaches to food insecurity,” notes a food industry analyst. “But this is one of the few that truly leverages the power of the consumer to drive meaningful change.”

Furthermore, Riviana’s focus on providing high-quality rice products, rather than simply donating surplus inventory, ensures that food banks receive items that are both nutritious and appealing to their clients.

Beyond Rice: Building Resilient Food Systems

While ‘Jars of Hope’ is making a tangible difference in the lives of Californians facing food insecurity, experts emphasize the importance of addressing the root causes of hunger. This requires a multifaceted approach that includes investing in affordable housing, increasing access to job training, and strengthening social safety nets.

“Food banks play a critical role in providing emergency food assistance,” says a policy analyst specializing in food security. “But they can't solve the problem on their own. We need systemic changes to ensure that everyone has access to a sufficient, affordable, and nutritious food supply.”

Initiatives like ‘Jars of Hope’ can complement these broader efforts by raising awareness about food insecurity and inspiring consumers to take action. By empowering individuals to make a difference with their purchasing decisions, Riviana is demonstrating the power of collective responsibility in building a more just and equitable food system.

Looking Ahead

As ‘Jars of Hope’ continues to gain momentum, Riviana is exploring opportunities to expand the initiative beyond California. The company is also committed to working with the CAFB and other organizations to identify innovative solutions for addressing food insecurity and promoting sustainable food systems.

“We believe that businesses have a responsibility to use their resources and expertise to make a positive impact on society,” says a Riviana spokesperson. “We’re committed to being a part of the solution.”

For more information about ‘Jars of Hope’ and Riviana Foods’ commitment to sustainability, visit Riviana’s Website. To learn more about the California Association of Food Banks and how to support their work, visit CAFB’s Website.