I am logging in from The Netherlands and am shocked to read how so many families and individuals face the holiday season and 2009. Is this truly the situation in Utah, USA anno 2008! No words left.

What?
Giving somebody something for nothing?
That's socialism!
It's all Obama's fault.

I wonder how many millionaires showed up for the free food.
probably showed up in their lexus/mercedes.
rich people are way into handouts

If you've never been in a tight economic situation, and wanted to provide a dinner for your family but couldn't.....you will not understand how thankful a person can be to be helped with a turkey and a few other staple items. There is nothing wrong with helping people out. Sure, there are some who take advantage of food giveaways, but most people are really in need and it is wonderful that there are those out there who are willing to donate items and help. Misfortune rains on Democrats & Republicans alike. We all need to eat.

But for the grace of God go I.

Since food banks usually require ID and proof of address and income, I believe it would be very difficult for a millionaire to get food. Perhaps Utah could increase the amount of food stamps they provide families. I support myself and 2 children on a $700 disability check and we only receive $200 in food stamps. Tell me how 3 people eat on that. Food from the food bank only lasts 3-4 days, and you can only go once a month.

I feel sad for anyone who has known extended periods of hunger. I wish we had a better answer for the whole dilemma. There are many facets to it. As a substitute teacher, I am often with students during lunch. Many of the students in the schools where I teach are from homes of limited income. However, it is amazing how much food they reject. They especially bypass vegetables, and often salads. They gobble up tacos and pizza. Not long ago I monitored breakfast. Almost none of the students ate their toast, and nearly all threw away a good portion of the food served.
A big part of our problem is that people have not learned to be versatile in their eating, and are hungry because what they want to eat isn't available. The bottom line is that children need to learn at home, while young, to eat a variety of foods. They also need to learn basic food preparation. I think we would be shocked to know how much of the food given away ended up in the garbage.