DENVER (KDVR) — As SNAP benefits remain paused during the government shutdown, Denver’s Joy’s Kitchen, known for feeding thousands each month, is now struggling to save the warehouse that keeps the mission alive.
Inside the warehouse, shelves are stacked high with fresh produce and pantry staples. Volunteers move quickly to pack boxes, making sure families across Denver won’t go hungry, especially while federal aid is on hold.
“So, we have 5,000 families a month that we’re always feeding, yeah, and that was before this snap situation was going down,” said volunteer and a member on the board of advisors, Noelle Mandolfo.
Before demand surged, families could come in and pick out what they needed just like shopping at a grocery store, but now, to make sure everyone can get fed, volunteers pre-pack each box themselves.
Noelle said, “Because of everything going on, we have to consolidate, condense and be more intentional with the way we’re distributing the food because there may not be as much resource as usual,” Noelle said.
Founder Kathy Stanly started Joy’s Kitchen in 2012 in honor of her late mother. For 15 years, the non-profit has served Jefferson County and is now expanding into Denver’s Lincoln and Central Park neighborhood, but the group’s warehouse, the heartbeat of the operations, comes with a $5,000 monthly cost.
After unexpected budget cuts to their partner organization, Joy’s Kitchen must now take on that expense alone.
“We just moved to this warehouse. I personally love this warehouse; it’s much more efficient, but now Kathy, our founder, is talking about how we may have to move again. We landed upright in this situation,” said Noelle.
The non-profit said it will take about $30,000-$40,000 to stabilize operations and keep the warehouse long-term. Despite the challenge, they’ve had no interruptions in service and no shortage of food. Just the need for space and support.
With around 450 active volunteers and only a few paid staff members. Joy’s Kitchen continues to stretch every dollar. Donations can be made at their website, where you can see how each dollar directly helps local families.
Volunteers at Joy’s kitchen told FOX31 that every volunteer, community member and donation matters, and as their warehouse faces an uncertain future, they are really asking for the community’s support now more than ever.
Alliyah Sims
Source link