Gov. Gianforte Launches Fifth Annual Food Drive Competition to Support Montanans in Need

HELENA, Mont. – On the second day of his 12 Days of Giving, Governor Greg Gianforte today visited Montana Food Bank Network (MFBN) in Missoula and announced the state’s fifth annual interagency food drive competition.

“As the only statewide food bank, Montana Food Bank Network works with over 330 community partners to distribute over 16 million pounds of food in all 56 counties,” Gov. Gianforte said. “This year, we’re proud to continue our state agency food drive competition to help feed Montana families in need this holiday season.”

The interagency food drive runs through December 15. Last year, state agencies collected over 7,500 pounds of food, with the Montana Department of Commerce winning the contest.

Since 1983, MFBN has been Montana’s only statewide food bank, partnering with more than 330 locations, including food pantries, shelters, senior centers, and schools. The organization distributes over 16 million pounds of food annually to Montanans across all 56 counties.

“Montanans are known for their generous spirit during the holidays and throughout the year,” said Gayle Carlson, President and CEO of Montana Food Bank Network. “Many of our neighbors struggle to provide for their families and have to make hard choices between nutritious food and other household expenses. Holidays are particularly stressful. But you can make a big difference.”

Carlson continued, “Volunteer at your community food bank or pantry, host a food drive, or start a family or business fundraising challenge. Everything you do means a lot to individuals, seniors, and children facing hunger now and all year long.”

According to MFBN, a $1 donation provides at least four meals for Montanans in need. The network’s most needed items include canned tuna or meat, peanut butter, fruits canned in own juice, and canned vegetables (low/no sodium). For more information or to find ways to help end hunger in Montana, visit mfbn.org.

In the month of December, the governor’s fifth annual 12 Days of Giving campaign will highlight a dozen organizations serving Montanans in need.

• On the 1st Day of Giving, the governor and first lady donated new, unwrapped toys to the Helena-area Marine Corps Toys for Tots and encouraged Montanans to donate to their local campaign.
• On the 2nd Day of Giving, the governor launched the fifth annual food drive among state agencies and encouraged Montanans to give to the Montana Food Bank Network or their local food bank.