Our Giving in Action recipient this Sunday is Hunger Free Colorado.
Our mission is to connect people to food resources to meet existing needs and drive policy, systems and social change to end hunger.
To meet existing needs, we make it easier for people to access and afford food with dignity. Through caring, knowledgeable staff and partners, we connect people to SNAP and other programs that provide money for groceries, healthy meals for kids year-round and consistent access to fresh, local foods.
Accomplishments Short-term:
– During FY 2024 (7/1/23 – 6/30/24), Hunger Free Colorado (HFC) provided food navigation services to 37,000+ Coloradans, helping them access resources such as detailed information about food pantries and meals programs, and helping eligible households apply for SNAP. External data from CDHS indicates that HFC has a 76% success rate in enrolling families in SNAP, securing nearly $30 million in benefits for Colorado families
– HFC continued contracting with six Regional Food Coordinators throughout Colorado. In addition to facilitating purchasing between local food producers and pantries, the Coordinators have expanded their focus to include farm-to-school purchasing. With the passage of the Healthy School Meals for All (HSMA) program, participating schools are encouraged to purchase foods from local producers. The Regional Food Coordinators are using their expertise and connections to assist schools in connecting with local producers and facilitating purchase agreements.
– HSMA served more than 600,000 meals a day during the 2023-24 school year.
For longer term accomplishments, see our 15 Year Impact Report being sent via email.
Societal Problem Addressed Hunger Free Colorado is working to help people experiencing food insecurity and hunger to access healthy, culturally-appropriate food. We also work to address systemic inequities based in historic racism and oppression that lead to food insecurity and hunger.
Population Served By definition, nearly all of the people Hunger Free Colorado serves are experiencing hunger and food insecurity. Due to ongoing and historic racism and inequity, they are disproportionately BIPOC and LGBTQ+. Families with children, and older adults, are also more likely to experience hunger and food insecurity. We serve people throughout Colorado, with the majority in the metro Denver area. We have emphasized outreach to Spanish speaking immigrant families.
Number of Clients Served Annually ~37,000
Annual Operating Budget $4,922,866
Percentage of Budget Allocated to Services ~78%
