An initiative to alleviate hunger in Utah is gaining momentum as residents are encouraged to contribute nonperishable food items for the fourth annual Feed Utah food drive. Scheduled for Saturday, March 15, this statewide effort seeks to stock shelves with essential goods for those facing food insecurity. Backed by prominent organizations such as the Utah Food Bank, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and local grocery chains, the campaign emphasizes community involvement and generosity. Governor Spencer Cox highlighted the significance of addressing hunger issues during a kickoff event on Wednesday, urging Utahns to participate actively.

Governor Spencer Cox formally launched the food drive at an event held at the Utah Food Bank, where he declared March 15, 2025, as Feed Utah Day. In his remarks, Cox emphasized the importance of ensuring no individual or family faces hunger due to lack of resources. He pointed out that Utah consistently ranks high in charitable giving nationwide and expressed optimism about continued support from its residents. According to Kent Liston, CFO of the Utah Food Bank, approximately 415,000 Utah residents grapple with food insecurity, affecting one in six children and one in eight adults.

The food drive offers two convenient ways for people to donate: placing a filled grocery bag on their porch before 9 a.m. on Saturday or contributing financially online. Financial donations will be matched dollar-for-dollar, enhancing their impact. Volunteers will collect porch-side contributions across the state, transporting them to designated collection centers for distribution to local food pantries. Grocery stores like Lee’s Marketplace, Macey’s, and Lin’s will also serve as donation drop-off points from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., accepting both food and monetary gifts.

Hugo Martinez, representing The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, extended an invitation to all community members to join as volunteers and donors. Martinez underscored the value of diverse food items, which not only meet nutritional needs but also provide variety. Recommended donations include staples such as peanut butter, canned meats, vegetables, and popular convenience foods like Top Ramen and macaroni and cheese. Jonathan Badger, owner of Lee’s Marketplace, echoed the sentiment that food is a fundamental necessity everyone should have access to.

As the Feed Utah food drive progresses, it aims to significantly reduce food shortages experienced by vulnerable populations throughout the state. By encouraging widespread participation, organizers hope to ensure that no one goes hungry and that families can regain stability. This collaborative effort exemplifies the spirit of compassion and mutual aid that defines Utah's communities.