Urgent: Boulder Food Pantries Face Crisis Amid Ongoing Shutdown

UPDATE: Food pantries across Boulder County are bracing for a significant crisis as the federal government shutdown continues to threaten vital food assistance programs. With demand surging, local organizations are calling for immediate community support to avert a disaster for families in need.

Harvest of Hope, located at 4830 Pearl St, Boulder, has already seen a marked increase in visitors this year, serving over 6,000 individuals compared to fewer than 5,000 last year. The pantry, which operates like a small grocery store, is experiencing alarming food shortages. By the afternoon of October 15, 2025, many shelves were bare, leaving families anxious about their next meals.

Executive Director Chad Molter expressed deep concern as the shutdown stalls food supply from the Food Emergency Assistance Program (TEFAP). This year, Harvest of Hope has received just 20% of its required 1.2 million pounds of food from TEFAP. “I know it takes a lot to move the needle. We’re downstream from a lot of things happening that we can’t control,” Molter said.

With TEFAP orders potentially unfilled after November 1, the urgency to donate food and funds is critical. Local organizations are already preparing for a potential spike in need due to expected cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and other federal programs.

The impact of the shutdown is not limited to Harvest of Hope. The Emergency Family Assistance Association (EFAA) and OUR Center are also anticipating increased demand for food assistance. EFAA distributed 124 million pounds of food last year to 2,265 households, but director Ellen Ross noted a decrease in food availability through TEFAP as well.

“Our community is facing a real crisis,” Ross said, highlighting the potential for families to lose access to essential resources. The OUR Center, serving the St. Vrain Valley School District, anticipates a 25% increase in visitors if the shutdown persists. Executive Director Marc Cowell warned that such a surge could lead to significant challenges in meeting the needs of clients.

“Even as our resources are stretched, Community Food Share will remain operational,” stated Kim Da Silva, CEO of the Louisville food bank serving Boulder and Broomfield counties. “If the shutdown continues, food banks will become a vital resource for those affected.”

Local volunteers, like Bob Schwall, who has been with Harvest of Hope since 2004, are working tirelessly to support their community. However, the emotional toll on clients is palpable, with many expressing anxiety over their food security. “The folks that we serve are working as hard as they can to make ends meet,” Molter said. “It’s hard to watch them face future anxiety over basic needs.”

As the situation unfolds, community members are urged to donate to local food pantries. Every contribution counts in ensuring that families have access to the food they need. For those looking to help, visit hopepantry.org for Harvest of Hope and efaa.org for EFAA.

The clock is ticking, and with November approaching, the urgency to act grows. Share this news to spread awareness and support local pantries facing unprecedented challenges.