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SALT LAKE CITY — For 112 years, the Utah Food Bank —one of the oldest charities in Utah— has been distributing meals to those in need, and as the holiday season and winter nears, there's a focus on making sure every Utahn is fed.
According to the Utah Food Bank, 37.5 million pounds of food and goods were distributed across Utah last year, which equates to more than 31 million meals.
However, 1 in 5 children and 1 in 7 Utahns are likely to miss a meal each day. In fact, the food bank estimates that about 15 percent of Utahns — about 423,000 individuals — are unsure where their next meal will come from.
"When children are out of school on holiday breaks, and especially during the summer, parents who are already having trouble providing dinner must also find a way to provide breakfast and lunch, which many of these kids receive for free or reduced cost at school," Utah Food Bank officials said in a news release. "This places incredible strain on already-thin wallets.
"The holidays can be even more difficult for Utah families facing hunger because many of them utilize all their resources to be able to provide holiday gifts for their children. In fact, Utah Food Bank’s Holiday Food and Fund Drive runs through Jan. 15 because our partners see increased need while families wait for that next paycheck after the holidays have ended."
The food bank has a statewide network of more than 140 partner agencies including emergency food pantries, regional food banks and soup kitchens. The Utah Food Bank is constantly looking for donations to distribute to those in need. Individuals can donate money by visiting the Utah Food Bank website. According to the food bank, $1 donated translates into about $7.35 worth of goods and services.
Utah Food Bank officials are asking that any food donations be made to the main warehouse at 3150 S. 900 West in South Salt Lake. This location serves as the distributor for the pantries across the state.
Individuals can also donate their time by volunteering at the Utah Food Bank. Click here to learn different ways to volunteer and give back.
However, if you and your family need assistance this holiday season, you can visit the local food pantry in your area. Visit the Utah Food Bank's website to find the pantry in your area.
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