UTA is encouraging locals to ride for free and pay it forward by donating to the UVX Food Drive from Dec. 17 to 20.

UTA is teaming up with Community Action Services and Food Bank to host a food drive from Monday, Dec. 17 to Thursday, Dec. 20. Donors can find food collection bins at various stations along the new UVX bus line, including at UVU, University Place, BYU Stadium and Joaquin and Center Street UVX Stations. Food collected will benefit families and individuals facing hunger throughout Utah, Wasatch and Summit counties.

Those who are unable to make it to the food collection locations may visit the Community Action Services and Food Bank website here to make a monetary donation directly, indicating in the Comments section that their donation is for the UVX Holiday Food Drive. Every dollar donated provides enough nutritious food for five meals.

“UTA is proud to be a part of a community that is so generous and giving, especially during the holiday season,” said Mary DeLaMare-Schaefer, UTA regional general manager. “We are pleased to be able to partner with Community Action Services in Provo in our UVX Holiday Food Drive in order to help fill the coffers of those in need. We encourage our community to ride UVX for free and pay it forward by donating canned food at the participating stations.”

Community Action Service and Food Bank (CASFB), a non-profit organization based in Provo, hosts food drives throughout the year. Their aim is to help stabilize impoverished individuals and empower them to rebuild their lives.

“We are thrilled to be teaming up with UTA for this food drive,” said Karen McCandless, CASFB director. “Because there are several food collection bins available in convenient locations, many Utah County residents will have the opportunity to donate easily. With 14 percent of Utah County living in poverty, this drive will make a tremendous difference.”

For more information, visit communityactionprovo.org.