KUTV — For over 100 years, Utah Food Bank has been committed to serving communities across the state. In the last fiscal year alone, the organization distributed 69.6 million pounds of food — the equivalent of 58 million meals — to Utahns in need.
With a statewide network of 309 emergency food pantries and partner agencies, Utah Food Bank ensures food reaches families in both urban and rural areas. To support this work, they’ve expanded their reach with warehouses in Salt Lake City, Springville, St. George, and Blanding, and food pantries in Hurricane, Blanding, Monument Valley, and Montezuma Creek.
As we head into the season of gathering with friends and family to give thanks, it’s important to remember that for many Utahns, food insecurity is a daily reality. In fact, 1 in 5 Utah children may miss a meal today due to lack of resources, and 445,000 Utah residents are unsure where their next meal will come from.
imes are especially tough right now due to high costs of living, and Utah Food Bank does not foresee an end to the elevated need our pantries across the state are seeing.
That’s why Utah Food Bank has spent decades working tirelessly to combat hunger across the state — and you can be part of the solution by giving food, time or money. Thanks to Utah Food Bank’s incredible partnerships and efficiencies, every $1 donated equals $7.23 in goods and services for Utahns facing hunger. If you would like to find out how to host a food or fund drive, or where to donate food, their website can point you in the right direction and provide all the tools you’ll need.
Volunteer time is an important way to give back as Utah Food Bank was the beneficiary of close to 191,000 hours of volunteer service, which is equivalent to 92 full-time employees. Simply put, Utah Food Bank could not distribute food free-of-charge across the state without the help of volunteers. You can find out more about giving food, time or money at UtahFoodBank.org.
Another great way to support Utah Food Bank’s work is to register for their upcoming 20th annual Utah Human Race, held on Thanksgiving Day in Sandy, starting at 8:00 a.m.
Participants in this family-friendly 5K/10K fun run directly impact the 445,000 Utahns facing hunger because every registration fee and sponsorship dollar benefits Utah Food Bank’s mission of Fighting Hunger Statewide. Utah Food Bank is looking forward to seeing close to 4,000 participants on Thanksgiving morning all running with an attitude of gratitude, and costumes are highly encouraged to help create a festive atmosphere.
The race route begins and ends at the Sandy Promenade at 10085 S. Centennial Parkway. Participation is open to individuals of all ages and abilities, offering both 5K and 10K options. The registration fees are $30 for the 5K and $35 for the 10K and includes a race shirt. Register early to take advantage of a $5 discount available through October 31.
There will be no same-day registration or timing chips available, and online registration closes on November 25, and can be accessed at UtahHumanRace.org.
Learn more, get involved, or donate today at UtahFoodBank.org.
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