Together we can feed
our community
The Denver Food Network works to match people who want to donate groceries or money for groceries to their neighbors who would like assistance (for example, in the face of delayed SNAP benefits.)
FAQs for helpers
How does this work?
Once you’ve filled out the form, we’ll reach out (usually in a few days) with the contact info for a neighbor who has requested help. From there, you’ll reach out to the neighbor and set up a time to drop off groceries or a grocery store gift card. We recommend introducing yourself, mentioning they filled out a Google form to be matched with a neighbor, and asking which method they prefer.
How come I haven’t been matched with a neighbor yet?
We match requests to helpers based on what neighborhood you both live in, so if you haven’t been matched yet, it’s most likely because we don’t have a current request in your neighborhood. If you’re open to expanding beyond your area, please email denverfoodnetwork@gmail.com and let us know!
How does it work if I want to grocery shop for my neighbor?
Ultimately, it is up to you, but we recommend either getting a grocery list from your neighbor and setting up a drop off time, or placing a pickup order in their name.
How does it work if I want to get them a grocery store gift card?
You can purchase a gift card at their usual grocery store either in person or online, and then deliver either in person or via email. We do recommend in person, so you can meet your neighbor :)
How much money should I put on the gift card?
It’s whatever you’re comfortable with. For reference, many of the families we’ve talked to are losing $500 to $800 (or more) a month in benefits. Of course, we don’t expect this help to be a full replacement, so please do what you can!
How do you vet requests?
We are just neighbors who decided to help, so we don’t have any real way of vetting requests. This is run on faith in people on both sides. That said, we believe everyone deserves to eat, and people who have enough money for groceries don’t typically try to “scam” their neighbors for food.
However, please use common sense and your best judgment. If something feels fishy, disengage and let us know! This is also why we suggest grocery store gift cards over cash—we feel it’s a happy medium of respecting people’s autonomy and your generosity.