The Las Vegas Valley is witnessing a surge in food insecurity, leading to collaborative efforts among local organizations. This weekend, the Salvation Army and the Boy Scouts will join forces for an annual canned food drive at various Smith’s grocery stores. For nearly four decades, the Boy Scouts have been instrumental in collecting canned goods for the Salvation Army’s food pantry. The current situation is described as critical, with the pantry serving significantly fewer families due to a shortage of supplies. Meanwhile, a new Grocery Outlet in Henderson offers substantial savings, helping families manage their budgets better. The canned food drive aims to gather enough donations to support the community through Thanksgiving.

Food scarcity has become a pressing issue in the Las Vegas Valley, prompting immediate action from local groups. The Salvation Army, in collaboration with the Boy Scouts, has organized a canned food collection event that will span multiple Smith’s grocery store locations. Amanda Fusco, who coordinates family services at the Salvation Army, highlighted the dire state of their food pantry. Once capable of assisting 500 families, it now struggles to support even 30 due to insufficient stock. “The need is immense,” Fusco emphasized. “We’re seeing a significant drop in our ability to serve those who rely on us.” The partnership between these two organizations has been ongoing for 37 years, underscoring the long-standing commitment to addressing food insecurity.

In response to this challenge, other initiatives are emerging across the valley. In Henderson, the opening of a new Grocery Outlet on St. Rose Parkway provides a glimmer of hope. Paula Adams, a shopper from Boulder City, praised the store for its cost-saving opportunities. She mentioned bringing neighbors along to maximize collective savings. “It’s about coming together and supporting each other,” Adams explained. Kari Maloney, the owner-operator of the Henderson Grocery Outlet, elaborated on the store’s business model. By acquiring overstock items and managing a packaging center, the store can offer competitive prices. “This model is crucial, especially during times when many people face financial hardships,” Maloney said. Despite her role as a business owner, she acknowledged her own budget constraints, emphasizing empathy with the community’s struggles.

As food costs continue to rise, there has been a noticeable shift in how families approach mealtime. Adams observed a return to simpler dining habits, with more people cooking at home and sharing meals with neighbors. “It feels like we’re going back to older traditions,” she remarked. “People are finding ways to connect over food while saving money.” The upcoming canned food drive on Saturday aims to alleviate some of the pressure on local food pantries. Running from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., the event hopes to secure enough donations to provide much-needed relief through the holiday season. Fusco expressed optimism about the impact of this initiative. “Every contribution helps,” she concluded. “Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those facing food insecurity.”