United Food Operation, Inc. (UFO) is a nonprofit organization that was formed in 1982.  The organization was started by a small group of Kanawha County workers concerned that the rising unemployment rate was causing more families to fall into poverty.  After the initial meeting the organization decided to focus on ensuring individuals have what they need.  They adopted the slogan, “There’s nothing alien about hunger.” 

UFO is a completely volunteer-run and operated organization that collects food and monies from companies, community and civic organizations to benefit less fortunate West Virginia families.  Originally, the organization provided services to seven counties in West Virginia; however, they had to scale back their operation because the demand was too great.  Currently, UFO serves 13 food pantries in Kanawha and Putnam counties. 

UFO hosts an annual food drive from January through April, when utilities bills are most expensive.  These donations are used to assist people having difficulty paying utility bills and purchasing food or prescription drugs.  Even though UFO receives the majority of their donations during the annual drive they accept donations throughout the entire year.

Remarkably, UFO is able to operate with no overhead costs.  The organization is run by retired and youth volunteers from a warehouse donated by Bayer Crop Science.  All administrative duties are completed as in-kind work through the Communication Workers of America (CWA). To ensure all parts of their program are tax deductable, the organization is categorized as 501c(3).  The organization ensures all the food pantries they work with are also categorized as 501c(3); therefore, all donations received are tax-deductable. 

Companies, community and civic organizations from Kanawha and Putnam Counties volunteer at UFO.  These include Verizon, Communication Workers of America, and the American Water Company.  Organizations can volunteer at UFO in a variety of ways such as sponsoring a volunteer day at the warehouse or encouraging employees or members to volunteer. 

Each May, the National Association of Letter Carriers hosts a food drive to collect non-perishable foods, along with the mail, during their normal route.  At the post office, the food is weighed and transported to UFO’s warehouse.  Postal volunteers are given a t-shirt and certificate for their efforts. 

“The UFO program does not work because of any one person; there are a lot of people committed to the program’s success!” Elaine Harris, United Food Operation Chairperson, said. 

The program is completely volunteer-driven, and everyone is welcome to volunteer at UFO as much or little time as he or she wants. 

If you are interested in volunteering at UFO, contact Elaine Harris at 304-342-2023.