Have A Heart, Help Feed The Hungry This Thanksgiving

Food Banks, Pantries, Soup Kitchens Need Volunteers, Donors To Help Feed Denver’s Hungry

 by Glen Richardson

As Thanksgiving approaches this month, we eagerly anticipate the warmth of family gatherings, and the smell of a delicious Thanksgiving meal.

As you look forward to the food holiday, however, remember there are many in metro Denver worrying about where their next meal will come from. The greatest challenge on this special day for the head of many households is being able to afford food to feed their families.

Amid food price inflation, and a 10% increase in Denver metro area homelessness, food banks, food pantries, soup kitchens, and faith groups are calling on volunteers and donors to help feed the community this holiday season.

Joy Of Serving

These holiday food providers help to make Thanksgiving and the holiday season in Denver a time of joy and togetherness.

A free turkey may be provided in a Thanksgiving food box, or families may also get a gift card to use to buy a turkey from a grocery store.

Many food banks have a schedule of Thanksgiving food distribution on their website. Individuals and families can also call to ask about hours, and any requirements. Some require signing up early for a Thanksgiving basket or meal.

Lunch, Dinner Options

Some food pantries and soup kitchens also serve a free Thanksgiving lunch or dinner. They may serve this meal on Thanksgiving, the day before Thanksgiving, or the day after. Some locations may provide meals to-go rather than dine-in.

Denver Rescue Mission partners with the Denver Metro community to provide Thanks­giving meals to families in need. Boxes are distributed at Empower Field at Mile High, home of the Denver Broncos, every year on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving.

Check Websites

Many food banks have a schedule of Thanksgiving food distribution on their website. Individuals and families can also call to ask about hours, and any requirements. Some require signing up early for a Thanksgiving basket or meal.

Many food banks provide free baskets or boxes with food to allow individuals and families to make their own Thanksgiving meal. These boxes include a turkey, and sides like cranberries, gravy, and vegetables. Boxes are often available at drive-thru pantries or contact-less pickup can be scheduled.

Food Banks

Food banks act as a grocery store of sorts for community partners and are responsible for ensuring that partners have the resources they need to feed those seeking help. A food pantry is an independent community site that distributes food and other products directly to those facing hunger.

Food Bank of the Rockies, located on East 45th Ave., is Denver’s largest food bank. “There are many ways to volunteer, and every bit helps us help others,” the organization says. As volunteers, all you have to do is show up, adding that they provide the training, a safe environment, and “communal fun.” Information: 303-371-9250.

Located on Pecos St., Bienvenidos Food Bank provides emergency and supplemental food assistance for individuals and families “in a safe, welcoming place.”

Through partnerships with grocery stores and other food providers they say they are able to turn every $1 cash donation into more than $9 worth of food, including fresh meat and produce. Information: 303-433-6328.

Food Pantries

Jewish Family Services on S. Tamarac Drive operates the Weinberg Food Pantry through collaboration with Food Bank of the ­Rockies. They provide all the ingredients for a tradi­tion­al Thanksgiving meal. Families and individuals, however, must register for the program.

They receive a large box of Thanksgiving food including a turkey, potatoes, green beans, cranberry sauce, stuffing, gravy, pumpkin pie supplies, plus milk and eggs. Donations of nonperishable food items are needed. Information: 202-597-5000.

Denver Food Rescue on York Street says volunteers are at the heart on everything they do. From redistribution of fresh food across Denver to supporting ­community-led grocery programs, and keeping their work organized, there are volunteer opportunities for everyone. There is a Denver Food Rescue Volunteer Form on their website. Information: 720-510-9139.

Fast Paced, Fun

Denver Inner City Parish on Mariposa St. has a weekly in-person pantry serving up to 160 people, plus five mobile pantries operating throughout metro Denver. Anyone can come to one of their pantries, no ID is required. The pantry is open for donations on Mon.-Tue., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Fri. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Information: 303-629-0636.

Metro Caring Fresh Foods Market-Food Pantry on E. 18th Ave. says volunteers work side-by-side in a fast-paced and fun environment. Their Fresh Foods Market is a free grocery store stocked with produce, meats, dairy, and pantry staples. They say they need you, your friends, or your team from work to volunteer. 303-860-7200

Boulder-based Colorado Pet Pantry allows pet owners to feed and protect their furry family members They distribute about 100,000 lbs. of food to pet owners each month. They need donations of adult dog and cat kibble, plus canned dog food. There is a donation drop off list on their website. They have a pet food bank at Bienvenidos Food Bank. Information: 303-818-0618.