Arvada’s annual 25 x 25 Food Drive was a roaring success this year, surpassing all expectations and leaving the entire community in awe. The food bank not only met its goal but soared past it, gathering a staggering 54,365 pounds of food. The initial target of 25,000 pounds was left in the dust as the generosity of the community poured in.

Every year, the aim is to reach the 25,000-pound milestone before Christmas, and while the Community Table has always achieved this, this year was truly exceptional. Chief Executive Officer Sandy Martin could barely contain her excitement as she shared the wonderful news, revealing that the immense amount of food would provide over 45,000 meals for those in need in the community.

The overwhelming support and generosity from the community did not go unnoticed, and Martin expressed her deep gratitude, saying “We are so delighted and touched by the generosity of the community. We were hoping to collect 25,000 pounds of food by Dec. 25. Instead, we collected more than 54,000 pounds of food. That’s more than 45,000 meals!”

The impact of this outpouring of support is immeasurable, especially as it will keep the pantry stocked throughout the winter months when donations typically decline. Martin emphasized the importance of these donations in providing not just food, but also hope and dignity to those in need. She highlighted how the variety and choice from the donations make a significant difference, as families can access their favorite foods and nutritious options to prepare balanced meals and meet their dietary needs.

Looking ahead, 2024 holds great promise for Community Table as they prepare to relocate to a new spot in Adams County. This new space will see the nonprofit operating a navigation center with an array of services, marking an exciting new chapter for the organization. The plan is to make the move sometime between the third and fourth quarter of 2024, bringing with it a renewed sense of hope and opportunity for even more families in need.

Overall, the success of this year’s 25 x 25 Food Drive is a testament to the incredible generosity and community spirit in Arvada. It’s heartwarming to witness the impact of collective efforts in making a significant difference in the lives of those who need it most. As we look ahead to the future, it’s inspiring to see the potential for even greater achievements and positive change.