SALT LAKE CITY – The Utah Food Bank is warning residents about a possible scam.
Officials said many community groups will be collecting food for an upcoming drive.
However, the food bank wants to warn residents about individuals going door-to-door, falsely claiming they represent the food bank.
The food bank said a group visiting homes on foot, without a branded company car, is carrying plastic bags with the Utah Food Bank’s logo but they are offering carpet cleanings in exchange for food donations.
Officials said this group is not associated with the Utah Food Bank.
The group members have been seen driving a silver or gray large SUV.
Usually the young woman who goes to the door has short blonde hair, a nose ring and tattoos.
“It is unfortunate that people are dishonestly using the food bank’s reputation in Utah to gain access to homes,” Jim Yorgason said, president and CEO of Utah Food Bank. “We hope this doesn’t deter people from participating in Hunger Action Month this Saturday. There are 472,000 Utahns who rely on these much-needed donations.”
The Utah Food Bank has relationships with other organizations and groups who may leave flyers but they do not go door-to-door.
Officials said groups who work with Utah Food Bank do no ask to go into your home nor do they offer services in exchange for donated food.
If you have any questions about any group or individual who claims to be representing Utah Food Bank, or collecting donations on their behalf, please call the Utah Food Bank at (801) 978-2452.
To help in Saturday’s food drive, you can take any non-perishable food donations to Walmart locations across the state from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., or visit your local pantry during operating hours.
MORE: For more information, including a list of drop-off locations, click here.
