The Regional Food Bank will hold its 32nd annual CHEFS charity event on Wednesday, September 29, 2026, at 5 p.m., in the Albany Capital Center. The gathering of local chefs and farmers is intended to raise money for the food‑bank’s programs and to increase public awareness of food insecurity in the region.
Organizers describe the event as a partnership between the food‑bank, culinary professionals, and agricultural producers. Participants will showcase their skills and ingredients, highlighting the connection between farm output and the meals that support community members in need. The collaboration aims to demonstrate how local food systems can contribute to addressing hunger.
The Albany Capital Center provides a venue capable of accommodating the anticipated audience of community members, supporters, and donors. Attendees will have the opportunity to sample dishes prepared by the chefs using produce supplied by the participating farmers. While specific menu details have not been released, the event will feature a variety of offerings that reflect regional flavors and seasonal availability.
Funds collected during the evening will be directed to the food‑bank’s ongoing efforts to distribute food to families and individuals experiencing hardship. The organization uses contributions to purchase, store, and deliver nutritious items, as well as to support educational initiatives that promote food security.
The CHEFS event has become a recurring fixture in the area’s charitable calendar, marking its 32nd year of operation. Over the years, it has grown to include a broader network of culinary talent and agricultural partners, reinforcing the message that collective action can alleviate hunger. By bringing together chefs, farmers, and the public, the Regional Food Bank seeks to sustain momentum for its mission and to foster a deeper understanding of the role local food production plays in combating food insecurity.
The September 29 gathering represents the latest effort to combine culinary creativity with community philanthropy, offering both a fundraising opportunity and a platform for dialogue about the challenges of food access in the region.