Guide 14 of 14

How to Make Blessing Bags in Utah: Safe Food, Water and Heat Tips

A simple guide to packing blessing bags for neighbors without a home in Utah, with FDA can safety tips, CDC heat and cold tips, and a Utah 211 card.

Need help tonight?

911Danger or emergency right now 988Call or text. Crisis or thinking about suicide. 24 hours 211Shelter, food, bills, anything else 1 800 799 7233Someone hurting you at home. Text START to 88788

Start here

Hi friend. A small bag with water, snacks and a few basics can mean a lot to someone on the street. Utah has hot summers and cold winters, so pack for the season and keep it simple.

Dial 211 Call or text 988

Quick answers

What food is safe to put in a bag?

Pick sealed, store bought food in its original package, and canned food in good shape. The FDA says never to use a can that looks swollen or has a bulge, is leaking, is dented along the top or side seams, or has rust along the seams.

Official page: fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/surplus-salvaged-and-donated-foods

What should I add for hot weather?

Water matters most. CDC says to drink more fluids than usual and to start before you feel thirsty. Add a note about cool places like a public library or mall, and that cool showers help. Muscle cramps, headache, nausea or vomiting are signs to get medical care right away.

Official page: cdc.gov/heat-health/risk-factors/heat-and-low-income.html

What should I add for cold nights?

Utah winters get dangerously cold. CDC suggests a hat, gloves or mittens, and a scarf or knit mask over the face and mouth, plus dry, warm clothing for the toes and fingers. Shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, slurred speech or drowsiness are warning signs of hypothermia.

Official page: cdc.gov/winter-weather/prevention/index.html

What info card should I include?

Write a small card that says: Utah 211, dial 211 or call 888 826 9790, or text your zip code to 801 845 2211. Add 988 for crisis support. In the Salt Lake area, add the Homeless Services Line, 801 990 9999.

Official page: 211utah.org

Where can I drop off extra items?

Volunteers of America Utah accepts donated items like clothing and hygiene products, and says they directly support its services. Check their Essential Needs list before you shop, so your gift matches what is needed.

Official page: voaut.org

Your next steps

Tick each one as you go. Your ticks stay on this phone only.

0 of 5

Use a gallon bag or small backpack.
Add bottled water and sealed snacks.
Add socks, a hat, wipes and lip balm.
Put in a card with 211, 988 and 801 990 9999.
Store bags indoors, not in a hot car.

All done. You are ready, friend.

Bunkly tip: in summer, pick soft foods and pouches over chocolate or anything that melts. In winter, add an extra pair of dry socks, because wet feet get cold fast.