SALT LAKE CITY — As inflation rises and food prices climb, more people are struggling with food insecurity. To address this issue, Sinclair has joined forces with the Salvation Army for a special initiative called "Sinclair Cares: From Homeless to Hope." KUTV’s Natalie Wadas spoke with the Salvation Army in Salt Lake City to highlight their vital work.
Lili Ramirez, a volunteer at the Salvation Army, emphasized the growing need for support: “Everyone is feeling the pinch. Rent and grocery prices keep going up. We need help.”
The mission of the Salvation Army’s food pantry is straightforward: to assist families in crisis or on the brink of one. Lieutenant Kate Combs, the corps officer for the Salt Lake City branch, reported that they serve about 630 households each month, with many being one-time visitors. In just two years, pantry visits have surged by 60%, demonstrating the increasing demand for assistance.
Combs noted, “We see around 70 families each time we open our doors. It’s stretching our resources thin.” They distribute an impressive 37,000 pounds of food each month, primarily sourced from the Utah Food Bank, along with contributions from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and various food drives.
One unique aspect of their pantry is the "choice-model." Instead of handing out pre-packed boxes, families can select their own groceries, which helps reduce waste and respects personal preferences. Combs explained, “Families have different tastes and dietary needs. We want to ensure they leave with items they’ll actually use.”
The pantry operates on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. On a recent Wednesday, the line of people seeking assistance grew quickly. Ramirez expressed her thoughts on the local need for services like this: “It’s overwhelming. Many people are on limited incomes and desperately need help, especially with fresh produce and meat.”
The Salvation Army aims to be a safety net for those on the edge of financial crisis. By providing food, they allow families to allocate their limited funds to other necessary expenses, such as housing. Besides food assistance, the organization also offers financial guidance and spiritual support to those who seek it.
In light of the growing food insecurity, experts emphasize the importance of community support systems. A recent report from the USDA indicated that 10.5% of American households experienced food insecurity in 2021, highlighting a pressing issue that affects millions.
For those interested in learning more about the pantry or how to get involved, visit the Salvation Army.
Check out this related article: How Extreme Weather is Causing a Surge in Food Prices: Farmers Warn of Fresh Produce Shortages
Source linkSalvation Army,Food pantry,Food insecurity,Choice-model,Inflation,Groceries,Community,Support
