LOGAN — Citizens and local officials gathered at the Cache Community Food Pantry on Wednesday to celebrate the opening of their new multi-million dollar, 9,240 square foot warehouse. The open house and ribbon cutting ceremony took place behind their current location at 359 South Main in Logan.
Logan Mayor Holly Daines shared her excitement about the new expansion during a brief ceremony. She said even though the food pantry is located in her city, its services benefit people throughout northern Utah.
“This is a resource for people who may have a temporary hard time or a little bit longer hard time,” stated Mayor Daines. “We do not want anyone in our community to be hungry. That is just something that should not happen. With the (food pantry) team, we acknowledge those who have contributed to the project and those who contribute donations on a regular basis, to keep the food pantry stocked. It takes a community to serve a community.”
The new warehouse will have more shelves, more refrigerator and freezer space, and a clean room to repack bulk donations. The extra space will also allow the pantry to serve more clients in the region.
Matt Whitaker, the executive director of the Cache Community Food Pantry said he is excited about having more room.
“We are very grateful to the very many organizations, individuals, and businesses that donated to this project. This is the community’s. It is a wonderful resource. We cannot do this without the support of the community. Whether that is individual donors or businesses that support us and know the important work that we do. So, thank you very much.”
The new facility was made possible by donations from Cache Valley Bank, Wasatch Property Management, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, JBS, the State of Utah Legislative Appropriation and others.
Whitaker said the number of people needing help is increasing and the amount of donations are decreasing. He is hoping that will change when people see the need.