Food Donations for the Holiday Season

Kael Beckstead
Staff Writer
  The holiday season is just around the corner, meaning families in need will require plentiful food donations. People often throw parties, eat food, and enjoy themselves during this season, but there are less-fortunate families needing help. Communities play a crucial role in providing year-round assistance to those who may struggle to meet their essential needs. There are several food drives and donations across the country looking to provide for people in need, many of which can be found in the Idaho Falls area, such as Salvation Army and the Idaho Falls Community Food Basket.
  Food insecurity is defined as not having enough food to meet one’s basic needs. According to the most recent USDA reports, the total food insecure population was 41.7 million people or approximately 12.26% of the U.S. population. The exact percentage varied but was generally 12-17%, with some U.S. states having an average of up to 21.2% food insecurity. These statistics only include official participants of government programs and do not include all those suffering from food insecurity. While this data focuses on national food insecurity, Idaho Falls citizens are also in need of assistance, particularly in the winter. A recent school-wide survey at Bonneville High School showed that while most students donate from time to time, only a small number donate frequently. Still, the majority of students felt they had the ability and influence to help those in need. People often overlook the importance of giving to those outside their immediate circle, especially during the holidays
​  For students looking to help provide food for those in need, there are two popular and local donations, Salvation Army and the Idaho Falls Community Food basket. Salvation Army welcomes donations and volunteers at 605 N Blvd in Idaho Falls or donate on their website salvationarmy.org. The Idaho Falls Community Food Basket accepts donations online at feedidahofalls.org or in-person at 1895 N Blvd. Idaho Falls and Ammon locals in need can receive food from the Community Food Basket at 351 W 14th St, or from Salvation Army by visiting the building to speak with volunteers or by contacting them online using the information found on their website. As the demand for assistance continues to grow, local organizations such as the Salvation Army rely on community support now more than ever.