November 28, 2023 2:50 a.m.

For this year’s Giving Tuesday on November 28th, the global giving day, Feeding Umpqua, a program of United Community Action Network, is asking Douglas County residents to help meet the holiday need by getting involved.

Feeding Umpqua Director Sarah McGregor said many organizations around the area are hosting holiday food drives to help support the 15 emergency food pantries in the county. McGregor said while food drives are a great way to support the food bank, monetary donations go even further. For every dollar donated, Feeding Umpqua can provide three meals.

McGregor said Feeding Umpqua recognizes that many residents need more support this holiday season, especially with food costs up 3.3 percent compared to 2022. This is the largest increase in food costs since the 1980s. In addition, over 48 percent more people are accessing emergency food this year than last year. The organization serves an average of 18,000 residents each month, 20 percent of whom are children.

To give directly to Feeding Umpqua’s holiday campaign, go to: https://ucancap.networkforgood.com/projects/211262-feeding-umpqua-holiday-campaign