Utah Shakespeare Festival Inspires Generosity in Patrons

The Utah Shakespeare Festival has taken action to help families in need this holiday season. Throughout the 2013 fall season, southern Utah residents were able to participate in the tenth annual Festival food drive. Thanks to the generosity of the surrounding community, the Festival was able to donate 3667 pounds of food to the Iron County Care and Share facility.

"The food drive for the Iron County Care and Share is a great cause that brings awareness to the hunger problems we have here in southern Utah, " said Sara Greener, Festival guest services manager. "Guests of the Festival enjoy participating and often come back to the theatre just to drop off food regardless of the discount we offer."

"Iron County Care and Share greatly appreciates the support it received from the Utah Shakespeare Festival and its generous patrons during the Fall Food Drive," said Joy Jankowiak, executive director of the Iron County Care and Share. "The over 3,500 pounds of food donated will help us meet an expected rise in demand for food pantry services as cuts to SNAP take effect this week, impacting many of our clients."

For the fall season, the Festival offered discounts to theatergoers who donated at least six nonperishable food items. Local residents were able to see any Tuesday through Thursday production for half price with the food donation.

"Many thanks again to the Utah Shakespeare Festival for being such a caring community partner and encouraging its patrons to support ICCS," said Jankowiak.

The Iron County Care and Share still needs help feeding families this holiday season. They also welcome volunteers to assist them. You can visit the Iron County Care and Share at 222 West 900 North in Cedar City, or by calling (435) 586-4962. According to the Iron County Care and Share, "food drives raise awareness of hunger in the community, collect food for people in need and play an essential role in the fight against hunger."

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