Hunger For Service

Raiders Defensive End Charles Snowden III helps tackle food insecurity in Nevada

Hunger remains a pressing issue across America, and Nevada is feeling it more intensely than most. According to a USDA study and 2023 data from Feeding America, 15 percent of Nevadans — nearly 482,000 people — experience food insecurity, exceeding the national average of 14 percent. The state’s youngest residents are hit even harder, with one in four Nevada children living in food-insecure households. 

Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Charles Snowden III is using his time off the field to help change those numbers. Driven by a passion for advocacy and community service, Snowden recently made a monetary donation and contributed food to Macedonia Outreach Social Enrichment Services (M.O.S.E.S.), a Las Vegas–based food bank feeding 300 to 400 families each week. He also donated to Ak’s Closet, host of the annual Community Baby Shower, which supports local parents in need. 

Pastor Donald R. Clay Sr. of Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church expressed deep gratitude for Snowden’s involvement. “We are grateful for the contribution by Charles Snowden of the Raiders. It speaks to us helping each other,” Pastor Clay said. “The cycle of giving in the community needs to keep reaching out and pull one another up. We are blessed and privileged to receive this blessing.” 

Snowden’s path to the NFL has been a story of perseverance. After going undrafted in 2021, he spent three seasons moving between practice squads — including time with the Chicago Bears and Tampa Bay Buccaneers — before finding his footing with the Las Vegas Raiders. His 2025 season has been a breakout, with standout defensive plays, tackles, sacks, and momentum-shifting stops. 

But for Snowden, impact extends far beyond game-day statistics. His understanding of the challenges facing families across Southern Nevada feeds his commitment to service. “Food security should not be considered a privilege but is essential to every household. Children and families are facing food insecurities, therefore, it’s imperative that we support one another. I’m encouraged by the great work M.O.S.E.S. is doing in this community. The Las Vegas community has embraced me and I have a responsibility to give back,” says Snowden. 

Snowden shared how moments of perspective help guide him: “It puts things into perspective when I’m upset about losing a football game on Monday Night Football — which stinks. But then I realize people are trying to eat and may not have food. Food scarcity is a reality. People in the community have real issues.” 

For Snowden, supporting M.O.S.E.S. and similar organizations goes beyond charity — it represents the essence of community. “Community is one of the most important aspects of humanity,” he said. “The work M.O.S.E.S. has been doing for many years to feed families is what serving the community is all about. 

With efforts like these, Charles Snowden is proving that tackling hunger is just as meaningful as any play made under stadium lights — and his leadership is inspiring others to join the fight.