The Chaffee County Community Foundation (CCCF) is issuing an urgent countywide call to action to support local food pantries and meal providers as food insecurity rises and key federal benefits face potential disruption.
New SNAP requirements taking effect November 1, rising food and healthcare costs, and the possibility of a prolonged federal shutdown that could pause SNAP and WIC benefits are putting extraordinary pressure on the local food access network.
“More than 1,200 Chaffee County households rely on $360,000 in monthly food assistance,” said Betsy Dittenber, Executive Director of CCCF. “If that support is interrupted, our local food providers will be the last line of defense. They are ready to respond—but they need immediate community investment to meet the growing need.”
Thanks to the groundwork built through the Safety Net Leaders Group and the Chaffee County Leadership Roundtable, local leaders and service providers have developed a coordinated framework for response. This network has the relationships, data, and determination to act quickly and effectively. Now, community members are being called upon to help.
How to Get Involved Residents can visit www.chaffeecommunity.org/safetynet for full details on how to participate.
● DONATE: Monetary gifts make the greatest impact. Funding allows food pantries to purchase exactly what’s needed and respond immediately as demand grows. Donations can be made directly to food access providers or to CCCF’s Emergency Response Fund for countywide coordination.
● VOLUNTEER: Every pantry depends on helping hands. Whether you can give a few hours each week or once a month, volunteers are essential. The Safety Net site lists volunteer needs and sign-up information.
● GIVE FOOD: Consider organizing a food drive or making recurring donations. The Safety Net site lists priority items, drop-off times, and pantry locations. Many pantries can accept produce, proteins, and non-perishable goods.
● SHARE: Help spread the word. Download the Chaffee County Food Access Flyer to post in workplaces, churches, schools, and community boards. Sharing this information ensures families know where to find help.
“This is the moment we’ve been preparing for,” Dittenber said. “Thanks to the proactive leadership of the Chaffee County Board of Commissioners, our county department heads, and our Food Access Network partners, we’ve built the infrastructure to respond quickly in times of need. Now it’s time for all of us to stand together to ensure no one in Chaffee County goes hungry.”
