Urgent Appeal: Utah Food Bank Director Discusses Escalating Hunger Crisis as Donations Decline

Salt Lake City is home to Ginette Bott, who has been fighting hunger in Utah for twenty years. As the director of the Utah Food Bank, she works tirelessly to meet the growing demand for food assistance.

At a recent meeting with the Salt Lake Chamber’s Leadership Utah group, Bott shared important insights about food insecurity in the state. She highlighted the struggles faced by many Utah residents, noting that hunger exists in every county.

“Hunger is hunger, no matter where it is,” Bott said. “Our mission is to serve everyone in need.” During the holidays, support tends to surge, but that need remains once the festivities end.

Bott emphasized that many people who are hungry don’t outwardly show it. In Utah, about 13% of the population faces food insecurity. This means that many individuals and families are unsure where their next meal will come from.

The demand for food assistance has increased significantly, even exceeding the numbers seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. Rising fuel and grocery prices only add to the urgency of the situation.

“While we see a lot of generosity in the community, the need continues to rise,” Bott explained. “We have to be strategic in how we ask for help because so many nonprofits are seeking the same resources.”

Bott reminded everyone that food dependency can affect anyone, including neighbors who may seem fine on the surface. “Hunger is very real, and it can be found in any community,” she said.

Local businesses, such as Mountain America Credit Union, are stepping up to support the Food Bank’s efforts. Recently, they made a generous donation to help keep food flowing to those in need.

Efforts to combat hunger depend on collective action and community support. By working together, we can ensure that everyone has access to the meals they need.