Letter from our Executive Director, Sandra Blythe-Perry
First published May 6, 2026.
Dear Friends of IFCS,
There is a saying that hard times reveal who people truly are. This past year, the Denver community showed us, without any doubt, exactly who it is: generous, compassionate, and willing to show up for neighbors in need. When the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefit reductions and uncertainty around health care coverage began threatening food security for thousands of families in our region, we braced ourselves. We prepared, and you responded: our community rallied around our neighbors with the generosity that we have counted on for over 60 years.
When It Matters Most, You Are Here
As SNAP cuts took effect and families faced impossible choices — groceries or rent, prescriptions or school supplies — the growing community needs were evident at IFCS. New families walked through our doors. Long-time participants needed more support. And our volunteers and donors rose to meet that moment. The numbers tell a powerful story.
During the government shutdown that severely impacted SNAP benefits (October 1, 2025 to November 12, 2025):
► $73,489 was donated to help IFCS respond to growing hunger
- $39,263 from Individuals
- $12,366 from Corporations
- $11,795 from Faith Organizations
- $10,065 from Community Organizations
► 205 new families were served at the Market @ IFCS
► 105 more households (and 274 more individuals) shopped the Market @ IFCS than the same timeframe in 2024
- Total served at the Market @ IFCS between October 1 – November 12, 2025: 1701 households (5876 individuals)
► 379 more SNAP-registered households visited IFCS for food support than the same timeframe in 2024
- Total SNAP-registered households served between October 1 – November 12, 2025: 496
► 334 Volunteers provided service in the Market and other areas
► 99 People submitted volunteer inquiries as they searched for ways to help
► 30,178 lbs of of food, produce, bread, and toiletries were donated to IFCS
Behind every one of those numbers is a real person, family, business, or community organization that either received or gave help that is helping build a stronger community for all of us. Parents who did not have to skip a meal – and parents who gave extra meals. Students who went to school with a full stomach – and students who ran food drives to feed hungry families. Seniors who did not have to choose between food and medicine – and seniors who volunteered in the Market @ IFCS to fill grocery carts for others.
Every donation and every hour of service was a gift that filled a need and brought us together to care for each other: this is what partnering in the community to alleviate hunger looks like.
A Community That Does Not Stand Still
What moved us most was not just the scale of the response — it was the spirit behind it. Businesses reaching out to see how they could help. Volunteers inquiring about how they could contribute. Donors who had never given before making their first gift. Long-time supporters giving again, and giving more. The Denver metro community did not wait to be told there was a crisis. People saw their neighbors struggling, and they acted.
That is the kind of community that makes our work possible — and makes it meaningful. We are proud to serve alongside you.
Nibbles & Sips: Celebration with Purpose
That spirit of generosity carried right into our Nibbles & Sips annual fundraising gala — and what a night it was. Friends of IFCS gathered to celebrate our community, enjoy wonderful food and company, and raise critical funds in support of our mission: To Nourish Lives. The success of Nibbles & Sips is a testament to what is possible when a community comes together with shared purpose. Every ticket purchased, every item bid on, every dollar raised goes directly to ensuring that our neighbors have access to nutritious food, financial assistance, and the support they need to thrive.
► $265,322 was raised at our 2026 Nibbles & Sips gala
To everyone who attended, sponsored, volunteered, and donated — thank you. You made it a night to remember and your donations are sustaining our programs throughout the year.
We Are Still Here. We Are Still Needed.
The challenges that drove so many families to our doors have not disappeared. SNAP uncertainty continues. Health care costs remain out of reach for too many. Families are still navigating an economy that does not always leave room for error. IFCS remains committed to being a steady, trusted source of support — no matter what comes next. We are scaling our capacity, deepening our partnerships, and preparing for whatever the year ahead may bring.
Our neighbors are counting on us to be ready, and with your continued support, we will be.
How You Can Help — Right Now
The most important thing we can say to our community is this: your involvement matters. Every contribution — of time, treasure, or talent — has a direct and tangible impact on the families we serve. Here is how you can be part of what we are building:
• Donate: Your financial gift keeps our shelves stocked and our programs running. Whether it is a one-time gift or a recurring monthly contribution, every dollar goes to work immediately for our neighbors in need. Visit ifcs.org/donate to give today.
• Volunteer: Our volunteers are the heartbeat of IFCS. From stocking shelves to welcoming families at our market, your time makes a real difference. Join our Volunteer CORE program at ifcs.org/volunteer-core.
• Organize a Food or Fund Drive: Rally your workplace, school, faith community, or neighborhood. Drives of all sizes help us meet the growing demand for food assistance. Learn more at ifcs.org/get-involved/#host-a-drive
• Become a Community Partner or Corporate Sponsor: Businesses and organizations play a vital role in sustaining our work. Learn about partnership opportunities at ifcs.org/partner-corporate-giving.
• Spread the Word: Follow us on social media, share our story, and help us reach new donors and volunteers who want to make a difference. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is tell someone else about IFCS.
• If You Need Help: If you or someone you know is struggling with food insecurity or financial hardship, please reach out. IFCS is here for you — with dignity, compassion, and no judgment. Visit ifcs.org/need-help or call (303) 789-0501.
A Mission That Belongs to All of Us
At IFCS, we have always believed that nourishing lives is not the work of one organization — it is the work of an entire community. The past year proved that belief right, in the most humbling and inspiring ways.
Together, we made a difference.
Together, we are making a difference still.
And together, we will continue to show up for the families, seniors, and individuals in our community who need us most.
With deep gratitude and boundless hope,
Sandra Blythe-Perry
Executive Director
Contact Sandra Here
Read Sandra’s November 2025 statement: Standing With Our Community as SNAP and Health Care Hang in the Balance
Read Sandra’s July 2025 statement: Committed to Community — No Matter What Comes Next
