After weeks of uncertainty during the federal government shutdown and disruptions to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, many Coloradans are still turning to local food providers for support. To help meet community needs and bolster food access statewide, the Governor’s Office, Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS) and Provecho Collective, formerly known as the Blueprint to End Hunger, announce the 2025 – 2026 distribution of $1.7 million in State funding.
This year’s Community Food Grants funds 69 community food providers across Colorado, including 64 food pantries receiving a combined total of $500,000 to directly connect community members with more food. An additional $1.2 million has been allocated to the five Feeding Colorado food banks to purchase food in bulk and supply it to hunger-relief partners throughout the state.
The statewide grant program, established through House Bill 2024-1407, is administered by Provecho Collective in partnership with CDHS. It provides funding for food pantries and food banks to purchase and distribute healthy, culturally relevant foods, while strengthening Colorado’s local food economy.
“This year’s State funding comes at a pivotal moment for Colorado communities,” shared Joël McClurg, executive director of systems for Provecho Collective. “As we work to ensure there’s food for all, today and tomorrow, food pantries and food banks are often the first place people turn when times get tough. They help families and individuals weathering life’s storms by connecting them to nourishing food close to home.”
The grants help emergency food assistance providers purchase meat, dairy, and fresh produce from local farmers, ranchers, and producers. They also aim to expand access to foods that reflect the diverse tastes, traditions, and needs of Colorado communities.
“As a network of five food banks and nearly 1,300 food pantry partners, we are so thankful to receive State funding,” said Mandy Pullaro Nuku, executive director of Feeding Colorado. “This is much-needed support for the Coloradans who rely on food banks and food pantries across the state. These funds also allow for our network to support Colorado agricultural partners with diversified market opportunities and fresh, nutritious food to our neighbors.”
The 2025-26 grant cycle was competitive and open to Colorado-based food pantries. More than 190 food pantries applied, with requests ranging from $5,000-$30,000. Collectively, applicants sought nearly $3.3 million in funding, with the average grant request amounting to $17,397 per applicant.
