Food Donation

Funds go the furthest.  While food donations are always appreciated, monetary donations allow organizations to buy exactly what’s needed, when it’s needed, often at wholesale prices. This means your dollar can provide more meals, more efficiently, and reduce waste from unneeded or expired items.

Support trusted organizations like:

The Denver Foundation

When you donate to the Denver Foundation, your contribution supports local food access efforts right here in Denver. The Foundation redistributes funds directly to trusted community organizations that are already on the ground, helping families access healthy food.

Food Bank of the Rockies

Food Bank of the Rockies uses collective purchasing power to buy food at significantly lower costs than individuals or small pantries can. That means your donation helps pantries stretch their budgets and serve more people. Your contribution helps make food more affordable and accessible across the entire region.

Your local food pantry

You can also donate grocery store gift cards to small, local pantries. Find a pantry near you.

Every donation helps keep food accessible for Denver families. 

Denver Recreation centers are no longer collecting pantry items for donation. Instead, consider checking with your local food pantry to see if they are accepting donations or donate to at a Food Bank of the Rockies distribution center. 

Have extra food to share? Download the Hungree App to share or find surplus edible food in real time. It’s free, safe, and helps neighbors support one another while reducing food waste.

Volunteer through the GIVE 5 platform to get matched with opportunities near you.

Sign up today at denvergov.org/Give5.

When budgets are tight, families may struggle to feed their pets. To help, we encourage pet food donations. We accept donations at Denver Animal Shelter (1241 W. Bayaud Ave.) or through our Amazon Wishlist.

Where to Donate:

 Denver Animal Shelter – 1241 W. Bayaud Ave.

• Use the bin to the right of the Lost & Found doors
• Or the bin to the left of the Adoption doors
• Look for signs labeled “Pet Food Drive”

What We Accept:

• Pet food & treats for dogs, cats, small mammals, birds, and reptiles. Must be unopened, in original packaging, and within best-by date.
• Pet supplies like toys, collars, leashes, harnesses, and pet beds

Colorado Pet Pantry will temporarily feed Colorado pets, allowing families to increase their ability to care for pets with the goal of keeping them out of shelters and with their families. Learn more about how to donate to Colorado Pet Pantry.