EMERGENCY HUNGER RELIEF FUND

In March 2020, the Colorado Blueprint to End Hunger was approached by a collaborative of Colorado funders to develop and administer Colorado’s COVID-19 Emergency Hunger Relief Fund in response to acute hunger that emerged in our communities as a result of the pandemic. While the Blueprint was not established to operate as a funder, we saw this as an opportunity to ensure that available funds were invested into communities hardest hit by COVID. In addition, we were eager to bridge the gap and create connections between philanthropic and community organizations.

Through nine rounds of funding, we distributed a total of $5.3 million — the entirety of all donated funds — to 536 organizations.

Moving forward, the Blueprint’s commitment has not changed, as we continue to work to end hunger across Colorado by creating a food system that meets the needs of everyone. We understand that the need is still great for community organizations and have included opportunities for support, both financial and technical, below. 

Financial Assistance 

Food pantries and food banks are on the front lines of this pandemic. In 2021, we are advocating to the legislature and Governor for another round of funding for Colorado’s Food Pantry Assistance Grant Program. This unique program — that only Colorado has created and implemented — supports the food needs of Coloradans, local agricultural producers, and our state’s food systems.

To meet increased need, we are asking for $10 million for next year as the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to disproportionately impact lower-income families. If funded, this program will continue to help food pantries and food banks with food resources, support for their delivery systems, and storage needs. It will also include grant language that prioritizes the purchasing of the healthy foods produced by Colorado’s local farmers.

We anticipate additional federal and state funding this year to address ongoing needs. As those opportunities arise, we will share those through our bi-weekly newsletter.

Technical Assistance

The Colorado Food Pantry Network is a resource for food pantries to support each other on any and all things, as well as to stay connected. Please contact Jason of Hunger Free Colorado to learn about joining the Network, contributing resources to the Slack channel, or partnering with the Network in whatever ways would be helpful!

Additionally, Hunger Free Colorado’s Food Finder website has a number of resources for individuals and families if they are in need of additional services.