Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
- The Utah Food Bank is requesting food, time and money, amid SNAP funding uncertainty.
- SNAP's partial funding restoration offers short-term relief, but officials said demand has already surged.
- Monetary donations are most effective, with every dollar equaling $7.23 in goods.
SOUTH SALT LAKE — It's the start of another week of uncertainty for thousands of Utah families relying on food assistance.
Following a court ruling, the Trump administration announced it will restore partial funding to SNAP, offering short-term relief — but local food banks say the demand has already surged.
The Utah Food Bank said it has seen an increase in calls for help as federal benefits hang in limbo.
SNAP, or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, serves about 1 in 8 Americans. With the ongoing government shutdown, many families have faced delays in benefits, leaving them unsure how they'll put food on the table.
How you can help
This time of year is the food bank's busiest season, but with more people reaching out for help earlier than expected, they said donations and volunteers are more critical than ever.
"Right now, kind of, holidays are secondary. We need to be sure that the everyday needs are met — and we need all of the listeners here to step up. And Utah does that really well," said Ginette Bott, president and CEO of the Utah Food Bank.
Related:
Utah congressman supports continued SNAP payments as shutdown nears record length
Utah Rep. Mike Kennedy expressed support on Monday for partially funding food assistance after two federal judges ordered the Trump administration to do that amid the government shutdown.Bott said monetary donations stretch the furthest; every dollar donated equals $7.23 in goods and services, helping the food bank buy and distribute food statewide.
Interested citizens can find a pantry near them by visiting utahfoodbank.org or by calling 211.
From those looking for ways to help, the Utah Food Bank is asking for food, time or money. People can donate nonperishable items, volunteer their time, or make a financial donation to help families in need.
Food drop-off locations
Utah Food Bank – Main Warehouse
- 3150 S. 900 West, Salt Lake City
- 801-978-2452
Donation Hours:
- Monday–Friday: 8 a.m.–5 p.m. (east side of building)
- Monday–Thursday: 5 p.m.–7:30 p.m.*
- Saturday: 9 a.m.–1 p.m.*
- *Volunteer entrance – west side of building
Utah Food Bank – Southern Distribution Center
- 4416 River Road, St. George
- 435-656-9122
Donation Hours:
- Monday–Friday: 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Utah Food Bank – Timpanogos Distribution Center
- 1900 W. 900 South, Springville
- 801-887-1277
Donation Hours:
- Monday–Friday: 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
Utah Food Bank – Southeastern Distribution Center
- 295 E. 200 North, Blanding
- 435-674-5498
Donation Hours:
- Monday–Friday: 8 a.m.–3 p.m.
Additional drop-off locations:
- Donate food at Harmons locations statewide.
- Riverton Chevrolet, 11100 South Jordan Gateway, South Jordan.
- Donate directly to your local pantry (find one here).
