This upcoming Saturday marks the third year of one of the largest food drives in the state.
The statewide Feed Utah food drive aims to provide food for an estimated 317,000 Utah residents who struggle with hunger.
Ginette Bott, the president and CEO of Utah Food Bank, noted that while their shelves are typically well-stocked during the holiday season, they tend to empty out by mid-March. With the support of communities across the state, the drive hopes to keep shelves and pantries filled well into the early summer months, particularly aiding children at the onset of summer vacation.
Bott emphasized the importance of addressing food insecurity for future generations, stating, “We need to make sure we’re taking care of that future generation… You are giving families and individuals in Utah meals for weeks and months to come.”
Statistics from the Utah Food Bank reveal that one in ten children in the state is at risk of going without a meal each day.
Governor Spencer Cox acknowledged the challenges faced by growing populations and rising inflation rates, which place additional strain on families. He expressed hope that the food drive would help alleviate these pressures.
Reflecting on the personal impact of food insecurity, Cox remarked, “When we think about kids, I think that’s when it gets real for all of us. As moms and dads, the idea of sending a child to bed hungry.”
The governor emphasized the importance of community involvement, highlighting the potential to positively impact neighbors in need.
In preparation for the event, Feed Utah door hangers have been distributed. Utahns are encouraged to leave food donations outside their doors or by their mailboxes for pickup by volunteers.
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Tyler Smith
