Bozeman, Mont. — This weekend, the Gallatin Valley is hosting a large community food drive as local food banks continue to face growing demand. Grocery prices remain high, and there’s uncertainty around federal food assistance programs.
The Human Resource Development Council (HRDC) will hold its annual Spring for Food Drive on Saturday. People can drop off nonperishable food and fresh produce at designated areas in Bozeman and Belgrade. This event aims to replenish food bank supplies ahead of the summer months.
Jill Holder, HRDC’s Food and Nutrition Director, emphasizes that this food drive is about more than just one day of donations. “It stocks our shelves for weeks and even months,” she explains. Fresh produce will be distributed within a couple of weeks, while canned goods will support the KidsPack program, which helps provide weekend food for children in need for the rest of the school year.
Reports show that the demand for food assistance has soared this year, highlighting the community’s ongoing struggle with food insecurity. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, over 10% of households are currently experiencing food scarcity, placing a significant burden on local assistance programs.
The drive runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. HRDC is also looking for volunteers to help out with the event.
For more details, check out the Gallatin Valley Food Bank and HRDC websites: HRDC.
In a world where food insecurity is on the rise, community-driven initiatives like this make a big difference. Your participation can help ensure that families in need have access to healthy meals.
