State sustains grant for food pantries, but prior reduction leaves gap

Colorado announced its annual appropriations for the Community Food Assistance Provider Grant Program on Wednesday, which, despite continued budgetary strains and a million-dollar decrease last year, was not reduced.

Still, with food insecurity rising and resources continuing to dwindle, the funding likely cannot match the needs of hungry Coloradans.

Colorado’s Legislature established the program in 2024 to help community pantries and food banks meet growing food insecurity, primarily with locally purchased produce.

“This year’s state funding comes at a pivotal moment for Colorado communities,” Provecho Collective Systems Director Joël McClurg said. “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 t