University of Utah Launched Annual Food Drive
The campaign aims to provide 100,000 meals to support the Utah Food Bank and address community food insecurity.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Philanthropy
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The University of Utah has launched its Tackling Hunger Together food drive, a seasonal initiative formerly known as the Rivalry Food Drive. Organizers are working to combat local food insecurity with a goal of collecting enough donations to provide 100,000 meals.
Why it matters
The campaign serves as a critical resource for the Utah Food Bank, addressing rising food insecurity among residents and students in the Salt Lake City area. This effort builds upon the success of the previous year, which saw $13,000 raised for the cause.
The campaign has secured an initial $2,500 donation from Smith's. Organizers are working toward a goal of 100,000 total meals to benefit the Utah Food Bank.
The players
University of Utah
This public research university in Salt Lake City organizes the campaign to address community and student food needs.
Utah Food Bank
This non-profit organization provides food and resources to individuals and families throughout the state.
Smith's
This grocery retail chain serves as a collection point for food donations and provided financial support for the drive.
The details
Students are coordinating the collection of canned goods at participating Smith's locations across the city. Additional donation opportunities are available to the public at tailgate lots and Rice-Eccles Stadium during upcoming home football games.
Timeline
October 24, 2026: Donation opportunity at Utah home football game.
November 7, 2026: Donation opportunity at Utah home football game.
November 9, 2026: Final day for contributions at Smith's locations.
Market Landscape
The transition from the Rivalry Food Drive to Tackling Hunger Together reflects a broader trend of university-led initiatives aimed at addressing community food insecurity. This initiative positions the institution as a central pillar in supporting regional social welfare infrastructure.
Residents can contribute to the goal by dropping off canned goods at local Smith's locations or during designated times at Rice-Eccles Stadium. These contributions directly bolster the supplies available to the Utah Food Bank for the coming months.
The takeaway
Large-scale community drives rely heavily on accessible collection points like grocery stores to meet their ambitious meal targets. Interested donors should verify their local Smith's participation status to ensure their non-perishable goods are counted toward the 100,000-meal goal.
What happens next
The food drive is scheduled to conclude on November 9, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about local efforts to support those in need in Salt Lake City Philanthropy.
More information
Review the full Tackling Hunger Together donation information on the official university portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by FOX 13 News Utah (KSTU).
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Do you believe university-led food drives are an effective way to address hunger in your community?
