NEDERLAND - On Sunday, October 20, 2024, the Nederland Food Pantry (NFP) welcomed members, volunteers, and donors to an Open House at their brand new home at 196 West 1st Street. 

NFP Board members greeted guests and took them on a tour of the three individual buildings on the new site. In Building 1, “The Pantry,” a beautiful spread of fresh fruit, charcuterie, and delectable sweets and baked goods was displayed among the many refrigerators, freezers, and shelves of goods for those in need. 

The guests learned that the NFP served over 1,300 clients in 2023, with the Pantry Gardens providing fresh produce for clients during the growing season, and the Community Gardens maintaining 26 raised plots in the Town of Nederland.

Across the property to Building 3, “The Clothing Closet,” attendees were welcome to speak with volunteers and Board members about the importance of the NFP’s services as the need for them increases. The Clothing Closet specifically provides clothing, including winter wear, and blankets for individuals and families, as well as infant supplies. 

And at the back of the property, in Building 2, “The Offices,” NFP Executive Director Betty Abel provided a slideshow with even more informative details about the NFP’s operations and achievements, including active projects planned to provide a new community garden, a generator, and an outdoor walk-in cooler at their new home.

Additionally, the NFP is planning for the future by creating and strengthening partnerships, engaging the community, collaborating with farmers and producers to provide diverse nutritious food options, and by creating donor and volunteer appreciation events.

There was a space to recognize the NFP’s many partners, including Boulder and Gilpin Counties, the Town of Nederland, Emergency Family Assistance Association, Clinica Family Health, Peak to Peak Housing and Human Services Alliance, TEENS, Inc., and many more.

The efforts of NFP donors and volunteers was also recognized and honored by non-profit evaluators Charity Navigator, who recently awarded the NFP a four-star rating. 

The NFP’s partners were also recognized 

The Nederland Food Pantry is located at 196 West 1st Street and is open Tuesdays, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to noon. For more information go to: https://www.nederlandfoodpantry.org.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a food emergency after operating hours, call 720-418-0892 for assistance.