Many of us run low on funds by the end of the month and when decisions have to be made about where to skimp, it's usually the variable costs like food, clothes, and household goods.
We all need a little help sometimes and that's why food pantries came into existence. Fort Collins is fortunate to have over a dozen food pantries available to its residents, however, many still associate a stigma with using them.
Here's a list of steps to help get comfortable navigating the food pantries in town.
1. Get your feet wet at Vindeket Foods on a Sunday afternoon between 12-3pm and Tuesdays 2-7pm. This is not technically a pantry, as it's open to anyone, regardless of financial status, with an aim more at food recovery than feeding the hungry. Vindeket rescues food from grocers in town and provides it to whoever makes the trip to 1239 E. Drake Rd. on Sunday.
However, like a real food pantry, you will "shop" for free food at or near expiration and show your ID or sign-in.
If you can, they appreciate a small donation of time or money. If not, they understand.
2. If you're a student or employee of CSU, go to a mobile pantry event. Bring your CSU ID and grocery bags if you have some (if not, they will provide plastic bags and boxes).
THERE IS A QUICK PICK-UP ON APRIL 2, 2020 DURING COVID-19.
Expect to stand in line for about 30 minutes; if it's your first time, stand in the shorter line. At the desk, they will ask first-timers for their name, address, and monthly income (no proof required), then scan your ID.
After that, you can choose the foods you'd like from the long tables lined up on University Ave. in front of Hartshorn. Foods vary each month, but usually fruits & vegetables, Noosa yogurt, crackers and several other items make an appearance.
3. Go to the Mobile Pantry every other Sunday at Foothills Unitarian Church between 2-3:30pm at 1815 Yorktown Ave. This is similar to the CSU mobile pantry above, but instead of standing in line, check-in inside, and then stand outside and wait for your number to be called. THERE ARE DRIVE THROUGH SERVICES DURING COVID-19 ON APRIL 5 & 26, 2020.
Discovery Fellowship Church also holds a mobile pantry every 3rd Saturday of the month at 6630 Brittany Dr. from 10-11:30am.
4. Other pantries: Check out FoCo Food Assistance's Pantry page to review dates, location, times, and eligibility.
5. Go to the pantry with your ID and grocery bags.
6. Don't be shy- ask where to go if you're not sure where to stand or what to do. Easier said than done!
Although everyone is there for the same reason- to get food- not everyone has the same story, etiquette, or patience. So you may feel like a duck out of water. Know that you're there for an hour tops, most participants are kind and helpful, and there's nothing to be ashamed of!
When I volunteered at a food bank, 25% of the clientele were hard-working college students! After the first few times, the awkward feeling of going to the food pantry disappears.
7. If you'd like a Pantry Buddy to go with, you can comment on our FB page or email us at zestnutritionservice@gmail.com.
For low-cost nutrition assistance, make an appointment with ZEST Nutrition.