The Chaffee County Community Foundation (CCCF) has teamed up with the City of Salida, Chaffee County, The Colorado Trust, and El Pomar Foundation to launch the Phase 2 Food Access Grant. This initiative is aimed at boosting food access across Chaffee County over the next year.
In total, there’s $200,000 available, with grants ranging from $5,000 to $100,000 tailored to the specific needs of projects. This funding is part of a broader effort to enhance food systems, guided by feedback from the local Safety Net Leaders Group and participants in recent strategic planning sessions.
CCCF Executive Director Betsy Dittenber emphasized the grant’s focus on providing consistent food access. “We’ve listened to nonprofit leaders and community partners. This funding will support lasting solutions that enhance coordination, minimize waste, and strengthen our local food networks,” she explained.
Funding Focus
This grant emphasizes sustainable improvements over short-term fixes. Eligible projects can include:
- Cold Storage Options: Expanding facilities to reduce food waste and improve how local food is distributed.
- Collaborative Infrastructure: Developing partnerships that enhance food access throughout the county.
- Capacity Building: Enhancing leadership and planning for future food system needs.
Projects aimed solely at maintaining current services or those lasting longer than 12 months are not eligible.
Key Dates
Funded initiatives can last up to 12 months, taking place from June 1, 2026, to May 30, 2027. Here’s a quick timeline:
- Application Opens: April 1, 2026
- Pre-Application Info Session: March 12, 2026
- Application Deadline: April 30, 2026
- Award Notifications: May 18, 2026
To qualify, applicants must be registered nonprofits, government agencies, or other eligible entities serving Chaffee County. They should show they can implement their projects within a year and demonstrate community need and collaboration.
The Bigger Picture
Food access is a pressing issue nationwide. According to a recent USDA report, food insecurity affects nearly 10.5% of households in the U.S. Understanding local needs through initiatives like the CCCF grant can make a significant impact. Many communities are working on innovative solutions, and this grant could serve as a model for similar efforts elsewhere.
For more information or to apply, you can visit Chaffee Community Foundation’s Food Access page or reach out at grants@chaffeecommunity.org.
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