Pantry prepares for annual food drive

MT. PLEASANT — A statewide food drive is scheduled for Saturday with the goal of collecting nonperishable items for the estimated 415,000 Utahns who face hunger—a challenge compounded by rising inflation and high housing costs. Organizers say one in six children in the state struggle with food insecurity.

Residents across Utah will receive door hangers in the week leading up to the event. Those who want to contribute are asked to place their donations outside by 9 a.m. on Saturay for volunteer pickup.

On the same day, the Sanpete Pantry in Mt. Pleasant will accept donations at its headquarters at 1080 Blackhawk Boulevard in the Mt. Pleasant Industrial Park.

Last year, the pantry provided food for more than 8,900 families and 30,600 individuals in Sanpete County, an increase of more than 700 families from the previous year. Volunteers also distributed an average of 300 of “Kid Packs” per week to area schools for students who aren’t getting regular meals to take home.

Residents wishing to support the pantry’s mission may also donate online at https://sanpetepantry.org/donate, or via Venmo @Sanpete-Pantry, with all contributions staying within Sanpete County.