Utah Shopping Secrets

When we think of those who are unable to feed themselves and their families, images of starving children in a far away country usually come to mind. However even in the great state of Utah where so many of us are so richly blessed there are individuals and families who struggle to have the food they need. Hunger is a very really problem here in Utah and may even effect someone you know.

The annual income of an impoverished family in Utah is around $22,000 a year. This income usually covers health care cost, shelter, food, and other household expenses. This statistic applies to 1 in 10 of the adults in our state and 1 in 8 of the children. Over 134,000 people in our state are recipients of food stamps. Every day over 60,000 people find themselves in need of a meal and are fed at local soup kitchens. Daily 1 in 7 children are at risk of hunger. In our schools about 40% of our children receive free or reduced school lunch and it may be the only complete meal they eat that day. These statistics paint a picture of the struggle Utah families have to provide themselves with adequate food each day.

The month of September is Hunger Action Month. In an effort to aid those who may be having trouble this year the Utah Food Bank has teamed up with local Utah Walmart stores to hold a food drive this Saturday September 24, 2011. The goal is to raise 1 million pounds of food. Many of us who use the Pinching Your Pennies website and blogs receive great tips and money saving information. We find ourselves blessed with pantries that contain the food we need to feed our families. I would encourage everyone to take a little and share with those who many not find themselves in the same circumstance. You can drop your donations at any local Walmart or at one of the Utah Food Bank Locations anytime this Saturday September 24, 2011.

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