Jimmy Kimmel Launches Food Drive Amid Prolonged U.S. Government Shutdown

Jimmy Kimmel, host of Jimmy Kimmel Live, initiated a food drive to support Los Angeles families impacted by the ongoing federal government shutdown, which has now become the longest in U.S. history. The “Jimmy Kimmel Live Big, Beautiful Food Bank” will operate at the show’s Hollywood backlot, collecting donations for the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank and St. Joseph Center.

The donation site, located at 6901 Hawthorn Avenue, will accept contributions daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Kimmel emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating on Instagram: “Cutting SNAP benefits creates uncertainty for American children, seniors, and families. To support our community members in need, we’re starting a donation center in our Hollywood backlot to benefit the @LAFoodBank and @StJosephCtr.”

Items in high demand include low-sodium soups; canned or pouched tuna, chicken, or salmon; nut butters; low-sugar cereals; protein bars; whole-grain pasta and rice, as well as household goods like diapers, wipes, soap, toothpaste, and feminine hygiene products. The initiative coincides with millions of Americans facing potential disruptions to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

Kimmel’s efforts follow a series of political statements he has made in recent months. The comedian returned to air after a six-day suspension following remarks about conservative leader Charlie Kirk’s death. During a Sept. 17 monologue, Kimmel accused conservatives of attempting to “score political points” over Kirk’s murder, later defending his comments as an attempt to “correct the record.”

The food drive will remain active throughout the shutdown to gather supplies for those in need.