The number of adults and children in Utah facing hunger crises has rapidly increased over the last ten months because of the pandemic. In response to this growing need, Intermountain is donating $250,000 to the Utah Food Bank. The contribution will support the food bank’s “Fighting Hunger Statewide” program, which provides food to hungry Utahns through 203 food pantries and agency partners. The program provides grocery-style food assistance to high-risk communities.
“Access to healthy foods is vital to health and well-being,” says Lisa Nichols, Intermountain’s assistant vice president of community health. “This contribution is in recognition of the needs of our community and the opportunity for health systems and food banks to collaborate in improving health.”
The Fighting Hunger Statewide program has numerous benefits and helps remove many barriers to receiving food assistance. It’s highly flexible, meets people in their current location by eliminating transportation barriers, and is immediately responsive to hunger’s changing geography. The Intermountain contribution will support 14 mobile pantries throughout Utah.
“Intermountain is proud to support the Utah Food Bank and urges others to do so as well,” Lisa says. “We can all contribute, ensuring Utah’s families have nutritious food in their homes.”
Intermountain Foundation also hosted a caregiver fundraising activity last month to address food insecurity and caregiver donations totaling $11,836 were sent to the Utah Food Bank. You’re encouraged to continue helping with money, food, or time. Visit utahfoodbank.org to contribute.