Press Release: Denver Nonprofits Face Increasing Challenges Amid Rising Demand
As the holiday season approaches, Denver nonprofits are grappling with a significant rise in demand for services due to worsening income inequality and persistent inflation. Erin Pulling, CEO of Food Bank of The Rockies, notes the escalating need, highlighting their largest Thanksgiving distribution to date, which drew over a thousand households seeking basic food assistance. “We’re doing everything we can to serve just as many people, if not more,” Pulling stated, emphasizing the tough stories shared by families struggling to make ends meet.
Florence Crittenton Services (FloCrit), one of the city’s oldest charities established in the 1890s, is also feeling the strain. Director of Development Theresa Garcia pointed out a notable shift in donor engagement, reflecting fewer contributions from smaller, entry-level donors even while larger donors remain supportive. “Fewer donors are being asked to fill greater needs,” Garcia remarked, stressing that the financial demands on their clients, particularly teenage mothers, continue to escalate amidst rising housing and living costs, leaving them unable to afford essentials.
In addition to increased requests for basic items like diapers and baby formula, the organization is witnessing heightened needs for mental health support and employment assistance. Garcia emphasized that many families are facing multiple barriers that hinder their progress.
Moreover, operational costs are becoming a roadblock for nonprofits. Pulling revealed that despite 70% of their food being donated, they still rely on purchasing a significant portion, with recent inflation driving up the price of critical supplies. The food bank is now spending approximately $31,000 more on essential items like cabbage compared to last year. “How do we meet this high need with fewer resources?” Pulling questioned, highlighting the pressing challenge nonprofits face as they strive to support a growing number of community members in need this season.