Those squash, along with apples, peaches, cucumbers and tomatoes, might not seem like luxury foods, but to many in Utah County, they are a rarity. Fresh produce is often donated less than other food items, such as canned foods, which means that those who are struggling to put food on the table are going without the nutrition gained from eating fresh fruit and vegetables.

Tabitha’s Way food pantries in American Fork and Spanish Fork and Community Action Services and Food Bank in Provo help to provide food for hundreds of families every month. Now is the time that we can all help them to provide the special treat of fresh produce.

“Fresh fruits and vegetables are vital to the health of the children, seniors and families that we serve at Tabitha’s Way. Unfortunately, we do not receive enough of these healthy items throughout the year,” said Mike Carter, Tabitha’s Way co-founder. “Due to inflation, the cost of fresh food has gone up significantly in the last two years.”

Carter said that many of the food pantry’s clients say that they are not able to afford to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables. Rather, they purchase less expensive food, which is generally not as healthy.

“The number of people seeking food assistance at Tabitha’s Way has doubled since last year, primarily due to inflation. Sadly, while the need has doubled, the amount of fresh produce has not. That is why we need help at this crucial time,” Carter said. “One of the greatest ways you can help the food insecure in Utah County is by donating fresh fruits and vegetables. So many people donate fruits and vegetables to their neighbors, which is a very nice thing to do. We ask that you please consider donating any excess to Tabitha’s Way Local Food Pantry.”

One fun way to do this is to hold a fresh produce scavenger hunt in the neighborhood. Some communities set up fresh produce stands and all is donated. Some people have picking parties. Rather than let the apples fall to the ground to rot, they are picked and donated.

“These fresh food items will go directly to our neighbors in need, and in most cases will be in their homes within 24 hours of being donated,” Carter said. “One way to help in the future is by planting an extra row in your garden or extra plants that are designated to be donated to Tabitha’s Way. Planting a few extra plants will produce a large amount of fresh produce and will help provide fresh food items to the thousands of people that Tabitha’s Way assists each month.”

Extra food from gardens and farms, fruit that might fall off of trees and other fresh produce donations are welcome at both Tabitha’s Way locations, 920 E. State Road in American Fork and 45 E. 100 North in Spanish Fork, and at Community Action Services and Food Bank at 815 S. Freedom Blvd.