Dear Editor,

Humanity - the human race; human beings collectively. This being said, our existence is stronger when we work together in support of each other.

There is an idea in Gilpin County that there are many people abusing the Gilpin County Food Pantry. As someone who has worked at the food pantry for many years I have not seen evidence of this. This space is a modest structure that allows community members to shop for essentials that are vital to survival and happiness. It allows folks that may be your neighbors, friends, or acquaintances the opportunity to choose the items they want and need instead of being given what others deem the essentials.

Over the decade that I have watched the need grow and our food pantry has always been able to adapt in order to serve people in the Gilpin County community. This includes people that are going through a rough spot and need a little assistance, others that may be experiencing long-term medical difficulties that are in need of long-term assistance. People that are experiencing financial insecurity should not have to wonder where the next meal for them or their loved ones will come from. They should not need to choose between paying bills and having food.

I have seen the Food Pantry adapt and serve our community through the Covid-19 pandemic serving over sixty-five families per week with pre-made boxes, and sometimes being able to provide milk, meat, and produce.

I can remember how excited the Food Pantry volunteers were when past commissioners Web Sill and Linda Isenhart started the wheels turning for a new multi-purpose building that could house the Food Pantry, county offices and a commercial kitchen that could be rented out to our county’s home cottage bakers so that they could expand their businesses. With the grant that we have available to us at this time this dream is now more attainable than ever.

I was saddened to read that our Gilpin County officials are questioning if the poverty rate in Gilpin is high enough to justify a food pantry. Ms. Mornis it is my belief that if one family in Gilpin County is experiencing food insecurity that is one family too many.

In a world that could use more kindness and compassion I ask that we start with kindness and compassion to our fellow Gilpin County residents.

I would also like to take this opportunity to all of the twenty plus volunteers that make the pantry a success every week…you show up for our shoppers every week without passing judgment and ensuring that people are getting what they need.

Thank you to Rudi’s Bakery for not only donating goods but for also delivering. To the Colorado Pet Pantry for supplying us with high quality pet food. Thank you to all of the Gilpin County Human Service staff, without you and the grants that you get to keep the Food Pantry running we would not be able to continue to supply high quality products. Finally, I would like to thank the gardener that grows fresh vegetables for the pantry in the summer. And a big thank you to all the residents that donate food and personal care products throughout the year.

Sincerely,

Roxy Goss

Long Time Gilpin Food Pantry Volunteer, Black Hawk