Community Action Services and Food Bank in Provo is facing a financial deficit and requires immediate community support to keep its doors open, according to a report published October 21, 2026. Jessica Miller, the chief impact officer at Community Action, told the Daily Herald on Wednesday that the organization needs $100,000 by the end of October to maintain operations.
Miller stated that the organization will ultimately require $1.5 million to pay off debts and rebuild reserves to "really right the ship." The financial instability has resulted in leadership changes, including the departure of CEO Tom Hogan. The board has appointed COO Caitlin Rangel as the interim CEO and has added new board members, including businessman Sheldon Miner and former BYU athletic director Val Hale.
The organization is currently struggling with rising costs and a decrease in grant opportunities since COVID. Miller noted that some grants are inaccessible because they require available cash for upfront spending before reimbursement. Additionally, the nonprofit is waiting on reimbursements for money already spent on other grants. This financial strain affects the organization's ability to cover standard business expenses such as rent, utilities, and staff salaries.
The financial uncertainty coincides with an increase in families seeking assistance at the food pantry. In September, 134 new families visited the pantry, and the organization is on track to meet or exceed that number this month. The organization's housing program, which provides rental assistance, is also at risk. However, warming centers that Community Action operates in partnership with Utah County are still scheduled to open Nov. 1.
To address these financial challenges, Miller said the organization is reaching out to local philanthropists, private companies, and municipalities where customers reside. Internally, Community Action has cut staff and is working to reduce expenses. Miller expressed gratitude for the community's values of caring for others and those providing support during this time.
Community Action continues to seek assistance from individuals and businesses to help meet its immediate financial needs.
