The Utah Food Bank is asking for help raising donations for those in need. (Photo: Ravell Call/Deseret News)
SALT LAKE CITY — As schools start closing for the summer break, many children will lose their only steady meal. That’s one reason people are being asked to donate to the national “Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive” on Saturday.
The Utah Food Bank has partnered with the National Association of Letter Carriers to hold the food drive this weekend.
“We need to prepare now to have inventory on the shelves of pantries across the state so it is in place for families when they need it this summer,” said Utah Food Bank CEO Ginette Bott.
One in nine Utah children don’t know where their next meal is coming from and 11% of Utahns will miss a meal today.
Bott said people can contribute by leaving non-perishable food items in bags outside their mailbox before 9 a.m. on Saturday.
People can also volunteer their time at the Food Bank or Post offices, or make a financial donation.
The Utah Food Bank said these donations are important now as children begin summer break and are left without access to school meal programs. To donate, fill non-perishable donations in bags to be collected by letter carriers. Donations can be dropped off at a local food pantry or any Harmons location.
The most needed items include beef stew, chili, peanut butter, boxed meals, and canned meats.