Utah Food Bank Partners with USANA to Fight Rising Hunger Amid Benefit Cuts

Salt Lake City, UT – November 6, 2025 – As Utah families grapple with recent reductions in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, a coalition led by the USANA Foundation has stepped up efforts to address the growing issue of food insecurity in the state. A recent event saw volunteers assembling 3,000 food packages, but the initiative represents a broader, long-term commitment to nutritional support within the community.

With SNAP benefit cuts impacting thousands of Utahns, local food banks and charitable organizations are experiencing increased demand. The USANA Foundation, a philanthropic arm of the nutritional supplement company, has responded by bolstering its existing programs and forging new partnerships to ensure vulnerable populations have access to healthy food.

“We’ve seen a noticeable increase in the number of families seeking assistance,” stated a representative from Bountiful Food Pantry, a key partner in the initiative. “The SNAP cuts have definitely exacerbated the situation, and we’re grateful for the support from organizations like the USANA Foundation.”

Beyond Emergency Relief: A Holistic Approach

The USANA Foundation’s response goes beyond simply providing emergency food aid. The organization is focusing on sustainable solutions, including its “USANA Kids Eat” program, which provides nutritious meals to children in schools and after-school programs. This initiative addresses not only immediate hunger but also the long-term health and well-being of young people.

“We believe that everyone deserves access to healthy food, regardless of their income,” explained a USANA Foundation spokesperson. “Our approach is about empowering communities and addressing the root causes of food insecurity.”

The program utilizes locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, supporting local farmers and reducing the environmental impact of food transportation. The foundation also provides nutritional education resources to help families make informed choices about healthy eating.

Collaboration Drives Impact

The success of the USANA Foundation’s initiative is largely attributed to its collaborative approach. The organization has partnered with a diverse range of local organizations, including the Bountiful Food Pantry, For the Kids, and the Utah Department of Cultural and Community Engagement. Each partner brings unique resources and expertise to the table, creating a comprehensive response to food insecurity.

For the Kids, an organization dedicated to supporting children in foster care and low-income families, has been instrumental in distributing food packages and providing essential supplies. “We’ve worked closely with the USANA Foundation for several years,” said a representative from For the Kids. “Their commitment to helping children is truly inspiring.”

The Utah Department of Cultural and Community Engagement has played a key role in coordinating the collaborative effort and facilitating partnerships between state agencies and local organizations. “This is a great example of how public-private partnerships can address critical community needs,” stated a department spokesperson.

The SNAP Cliff and Its Impact

The recent reductions in SNAP benefits, known as the “SNAP cliff,” have had a significant impact on Utah families. The cuts, which took effect in October, resulted in an average reduction of $250 per month for households that were previously receiving the maximum benefit.

“For many families, that $250 makes a huge difference,” explained a community advocate working with low-income families. “It’s the difference between being able to afford groceries and having to choose between food and other essential needs.”

The SNAP cuts have disproportionately affected vulnerable populations, including seniors, people with disabilities, and families with young children. Many of these individuals are already struggling to make ends meet, and the cuts have pushed them even closer to the poverty line.

According to data from the USDA, Utah’s food insecurity rate has been relatively stable in recent years, but the recent SNAP cuts are expected to exacerbate the problem. The state’s food banks are already struggling to meet the growing demand, and they are bracing for a further increase in the coming months.

Sustainable Solutions for the Future

The USANA Foundation recognizes that addressing food insecurity requires more than just temporary relief. The organization is committed to investing in sustainable solutions that address the root causes of hunger and promote long-term food security.

The “USANA Garden Towers” initiative is one example of this commitment. The program provides communities with resources to build and maintain vertical gardens, allowing them to grow their own fresh produce. This not only provides access to healthy food but also empowers communities to take control of their food systems.

“We believe that everyone has the right to nutritious food,” said a USANA Foundation representative. “Our goal is to create a more equitable and sustainable food system that ensures that everyone has access to the resources they need to thrive.”

The organization is also advocating for policies that support food security, such as increased funding for SNAP and school meal programs. “We need to work together to create a safety net that protects vulnerable populations and ensures that everyone has access to the food they need,” said a community advocate.

The USANA Foundation’s efforts are part of a broader movement to address food insecurity in Utah and across the country. By investing in sustainable solutions and fostering collaboration, the organization is making a significant impact on the lives of those who are struggling to put food on the table. As SNAP benefits continue to be scrutinized and funding shifts, such partnerships and long-term strategies will be vital to ensuring no Utahns go hungry.