Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has proclaimed Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025, as the inaugural “New Mexico Lions Food Drive Day,” establishing an annual statewide initiative to combat food insecurity across the state.
The proclamation recognizes the efforts of District 40 Lions Clubs, which serve communities throughout New Mexico, and creates a permanent platform for community action against hunger. Lions clubs statewide will collect food and cash donations to support local food pantries in their communities.
According to Feeding America, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting hunger, 350,101 people in New Mexico face hunger, including 104,390 children. The organization reports that one in six adults and one in four children in the state do not have enough food to eat daily.
Last year’s statewide food drive collected more than 9,000 food items and $2,500 for local food pantries, according to the New Mexico Lions organization. This year, organizers aim to collect more than 10,000 food items and increase cash donations.
In Edgewood, the local Lions Club will participate by collecting donations at Smith’s locations from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. All contributions gathered in the area will benefit the East Mountain Food Pantry, which serves families in Edgewood and surrounding communities.
“By formalizing September 13 as New Mexico Lions Food Drive Day, the proclamation does more than recognize past achievements—it provides a lasting platform to sustain and mobilize community action year after year,” according to the Lions Club.
The annual designation aims to encourage collaboration among schools, businesses, nonprofits and faith-based organizations in addressing hunger across the state.
Businesses and organizations interested in participating in the Edgewood area can contact Lion K.R. Scott, food drive coordinator, at info@edgewoodlions.org.
Lions International’s mission includes serving as a leader in fighting hunger worldwide. The New Mexico initiative aligns with this global commitment while addressing local food insecurity challenges.
The statewide food drive represents the second annual coordinated effort among New Mexico Lions clubs, building on the success of the previous year’s collection efforts.
