Donate to Utah Food Bank

June 1, 2020

Here at Harmons we love local, and that goes for local causes too! This is one of the reasons we accept donations for Utah Food Bank at all of our locations all year long. Utah Food Bank has been a cornerstone of the Utah community since 1904 and Harmons is proud to be one of their partners.

The last few months have been filled with uncertainty. Utahns across the state have been affected by rising unemployment and economic hardship. School closures have made it difficult for children to access meals they would normally receive at school. More than ever, Utah families are turning to local food banks to put food on the table. It is estimated that food-insecure Utahns will increase by 165,000 individuals in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. An increasing number of first-time recipients are seeking services from Utah Food Bank. Consequently, Utah Food Bank has seen a sharp increase in demand.

Here is where you come in! As a Harmons shopper, you can support your community by donating to Utah Food Bank. Your local Harmons store has a collection site set up for food donations. Stop by to drop off items from home or pick some up during your shopping trip.

Utah Food Bank requests that food donations:

  • Be low in sodium
  • Be low in sugar
  • Do not contain high fructose corn syrup

The most needed items include:

  • Peanut butter
  • Mac & Cheese
  • Canned fish and chicken
  • Canned chili
  • SpaghettiOs/Ravioli
  • Canned fruit
  • Other boxed meals

Beyond food donations, financial contributions are currently the top priority for Utah Food Bank. We are all living a new normal. This includes the strategies that Utah Food Bank has implemented to react to social distancing measures and to better distribute to those in need across the state. In response to increased demand, Mobile Pantry operations have been expanded. Utah Food Bank is also working alongside local school districts to ensure that children who typically eat at school are cared for by the distribution of bagged meals. The expansion of these types of programs requires additional transportation costs. Utah Food Bank expects their costs of providing food assistance over the next 12-18 months to increase by an additional $6.5 million. You can feel good about donating to Utah Food Bank knowing that they will stretch your $1 donation into $7.66 worth of goods and services to your fellow Utahns with the help of their volunteers and in-kind donors.

In a time of physical distancing, it is helpful to find other ways to connect with your community. Charitable donations are a good way to find purpose during a confusing time if you are in a position to give. If you find yourself in need, know that Utah Food Bank is here to serve you. Visit https://www.utahfoodbank.org/ for more information or ask for details during your next trip to Harmons.