As the government shutdown continues and the cold winter temperatures approach, the Little Flower Assistance Center in Aurora has seen a sharp increase in families seeking help. Last week alone, the Catholic Charities’ center served more than 1,000 people — about 150 to 200 more individuals than usual — through its food bank and clothing pantry.
“We’re seeing families who have never needed help before,” says Ryan Specht, Manager of Emergency Services at Catholic Charities. “There’s a real sense of worry right now. Even though SNAP benefits haven’t stopped, many are concerned they soon could — and they’re acting proactively to ensure their families are cared for.”
The Little Flower Assistance Center, located at 11149 E. 14th Avenue, Aurora, CO 80010, serves individuals and families in Aurora and Denver zip codes 80231, 80239 and 80249. The center is open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., offering groceries, clothing, diapers, hygiene items, employment counseling and more.
How You Can Help
The surge in need means the pantry shelves are turning over faster than ever. The Little Flower Assistance Center urgently needs donations of:
- Meat, milk, fruits and vegetables, rice, potatoes, beans, cheese, canned and frozen foods.
(Please note: we are unable to accept soda, chips or candy.)
Donations of nonperishable food items, personal care supplies or financial gifts are gratefully accepted Monday through Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m and at ccdenver.org/donate.
More resources
If you need more food resources during the government shutdown, we encourage you to reach out to your local food banks or community agencies in your area. To find these resources in your area, please contact:
211 Colorado: Call 2-1-1 or 866-760-6489 or visit the 211 Colorado website
Feeding Colorado: Search the Feeding Colorado food finder or email info@feedingcolorado.org
2-1-1 Colorado
A post from 211 Colorado on 2-1-1 Colorado provided by: https://www.211colorado.org
Together, we can help our neighbors weather the uncertainty and the cold months ahead — and remind every person who walks through our doors that we are here to support neighbors and transform lives.