Springs Charities See Record Demand, Generosity

It’s been a busy year for food banks across Colorado, with many struggling to meet record high demand.

“Unfortunately, the number of people coming for assistance is high this year,” said Joe Vazquez, CEO of Springs Rescue Mission. “We’re giving out the largest number of food boxes in the 16 years that the Springs Rescue Mission has been here in the community.”

According to a report by the Denver Post , donations haven’t kept up with demand in many cities. Colorado Springs, though, seems to be an exception.

“The Colorado Springs community has really stepped up to the plate,” said Vazquez.

Vazquez said, despite the economy, people have been giving more than in the past, allowing the mission to stay on track. This year the mission is giving out a record 1,500 Thanksgiving meal boxes.

Rochelle Schlortt, spokesperson for Catholic Charities, said she’s also seen tremendous generosity from the community. Schlortt said the group is now serving 600 to 800 meals a day at the Marian House, almost double from before 2008. She said the group’s food budget is $25,000 a year and the rest comes from donations.

“We’re seeing more and more people come to our door,” said Schlortt. “In general, donations have kept up with demand. The community has stepped up to donate more.”

Schlortt said one area where the Marian House is falling short is with turkey donations. She said about 200 birds have been collected so far, but the hope is for 500 more to come in before Thanksgiving. Drop of turkeys at the Marian House (14 West Bijou Street) between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m. Monday through Wednesday.

The Marian House will host a free Thanksgiving dinner on Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The Springs Rescue Mission is holding its Great Thanksgiving Banquet at City Auditorium (221 East Kiowa Street) on Wednesday 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. They plan to serve 3,000 people.