What a wonderful opportunity for the youth of this state to learn the value of service to others. – Jodene Smith, co-chairwoman of the Youth Parade
SALT LAKE CITY — About 5,000 youths will honor pioneer heritage with donations to help feed the hungry.
On July 20, before the start of the Days of ’47 Union Pacific Youth Parade, the young participants will each drop off a can or more of food to a Utah Food Bank truck from 9-10 a.m. One truck will be located at the parade start, 600 East and 500 South, and another will be available near the Days of ’47 Family Festival on Washington Square, 200 East and 500 South.
Utah National Guard members will be on hand to collect the food. Parade attendees are also encouraged to donate.
“What a wonderful opportunity for the youth of this state to learn the value of service to others,” said Jodene Smith, co-chairwoman of the Youth Parade.
“Utah Food Bank is grateful to have the support of the Days of ‘47 organizers and their participants in our mission of fighting hunger statewide," said Ginette Bott, Utah Food Bank chief marketing officer. "Summer means an increased need for food donations because children are out of school without access to school lunch and breakfast programs. It is also our slowest time for food donations.”
Utah Gov. Gary Herbert and first lady Jeanette Herbert will participate in the Youth Parade and Family Festival where Herbert will announce “Celebrating Utah,” a new initiative spearheaded by the Days of ’47 that will officially open pioneer-themed celebrations in the state.
The Days of ’47 Inc. is encouraging all Utah residents to take part in one or all 11 events. More information is available at www.daysof47.com.
Events culminate with the annual Days of ’47 KSL 5 Parade held this year on Wednesday, July 24, beginning at 9 a.m. and broadcast live on KSL-TV.