CASFB: Provo location sees an increase in food insecurity issues in the community | News, Sports, Jobs

It’s no secret that inflation rates wreak havoc on the lives of many Americans. The annual inflation rate in the United States has reached 9.1% in June 2022, the highest in over 40 years. This rising rate of inflation makes it difficult for some people to meet basic living needs. As prices rise, more and more people are looking for support services to help them through these difficult times.

A support service is hard at work to make these difficult times bearable. Community Action Services and Food Bank (CASFB) is a nonprofit organization in Provo that seeks to address the problem of poverty. Their mission is to empower individuals, families and communities by providing them with the resources to stabilize their crises and helping them rebuild their lives. By working for and with the community, CASFB is bringing about positive change in Utah.

Help the community

Since 1967, CASFB has worked to provide individuals with long-term solutions to rebuild their financial and social autonomy and escape poverty.

Recent economic conditions have led the CASFB to see a large increase in the number of people coming to them for help. The organization is currently providing food to twice as many people as at the same time last year. This number continues to increase rapidly. In June, CASFB provided food support to 4,300 people. That’s 900 people more than the previous month.

In addition, the CASFB has seen a 50% increase in the number of people coming to them seeking safe housing and avoiding suspensions of public services. Other services provided by CASFB include, but are not limited to, emergency assistance, financial learning, and homebuyer education services. As inflation continues to rise, the need for all services is expected to continue to increase.

Get help from the community

Fortunately, an increase in donations is helping CASFB meet the increased need. CASFB has enjoyed generous support from the community as it strives to meet the changing and growing needs of those struggling. CASFB is grateful to the kind and supportive members of the community who enable its organization to meet the needs of people experiencing poverty.

There are many ways to help. If you are interested in organizing a food drive, you can find additional details on the website. CASFB has helped many work groups and churches organize food drives and is always ready to help those who wish to organize their own. Through CASFB’s Grocery Rescue Program, individuals and organizations can provide many nutritious items, such as breads, fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, eggs, and dairy products.

The fight against poverty requires a combined effort from the community and organizations. With 14% of Utah County living in poverty – totaling about 72,000 people – all helps. Together, we can fight poverty and build stable, self-reliant communities.

Tom Hogan is the Chief Operating Officer of Community Action Services and Food Bank in Provo. CASFB is located at 815 S. Freedom Blvd., Ste. 100. For more information on educational programs, how to donate, upcoming classes, food drives and more, visit communityactionuc.org or call (801) 373-8200.

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