Supporting Utah Communities: Inside The Annual Feed Utah Food Drive

You may have come home to find a notice placed on your doorknob, and I hope you'll take the time to see what that is about, and if you are able, lend a helping hand, or in this case, a helping can (or two or more) to the Utah Food Bank.

If you don't get a door hanger, let me give you the information. The Utah Food Bank is teaming up with local organizations and residents of the state for the annual statewide Feed Utah food drive. The event, done in partnership with Macey's Grocery, Just Serve, and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, gives those who are able the opportunity to share with those in less fortunate circumstances.

There is a great need. According to the Utah Food Bank, ten percent of Utah's population, some 317,000 souls, are unsure where their next meal will come from, so clearly ther is work to do.

Food drives play a crucial role in strengthening communities by addressing food insecurity and fostering a sense of solidarity among residents. These initiatives mobilize individuals, businesses, and organizations to collect and distribute food to those in need, providing vital support to vulnerable populations.

By participating in food drives, community members come together to address a pressing issue, demonstrating compassion and empathy for their neighbors facing hunger. This collective effort not only provides essential sustenance but also promotes a sense of belonging and interconnectedness within the community.

So how can you help? For those who have had the notices placed on their doors, they have the details. But if your house was missed, or if the door notice got blown off by the wind (like that would ever happen in southern Utah) it's really easy to participate. Gather up as much non-perishable food items as you are able to contribute, put them in a bag, and leave that bag outside your door by 9:00AM this Saturday, March 16^th. That's it. Volunteers will come to your neighborhood and gather the food which will ultimately be distributed to food pantries through out the state.

I happen to know that at least one store in our area is having a case lot sale going on now, so if you are shopping to take advantage of that, this could be an ideal time to collect a few extra food items to help those facing food insecurity.

Food drives are a testament to the power of collective action and compassion, demonstrating how coming together as a community can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those facing hardship. I have no doubt that our southern Utah community will rise up to the task.