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SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Food Bank says they're bracing for a demanding new year — as families continue to struggle with the pandemic, inflation, and rising food costs. They serve 29 counties in Utah. From north to south, the need is great.
"In St. George alone last year 39,000 people have been struggling with food and security, higher than we've ever seen before," said Ginette Bott, president and CEO at the Utah Food Bank.
With the earned income tax credit going away soon, Bott says they expect to serve more Utah families who will have to make tough financial decisions.
Money for food is usually the first to get cut.
"We know the future is going to be a challenge. We see the next 18 to 24 months as being something Utah food bank has to prepare for," said Bott.
Bott says they're seeing people falling on hard times for the first time and don't realize there are resources out there.
"Help is there people need to people need do remember that."
You can call 2-1-1 to learn more about food pantry locations, and other resources.
The Utah Food bank is doing their best to keep up with demand.
They plan expand their operations in parts of the state including in Salt Lake, Springville and San Juan County where they plan to build a warehouse in Blanding. They'll operate two pantries for people living in the Navajo Nation.
