The tough economy has caused many Coloradans to make big changes. Some families that used to donate to area food banks are, for the first time, turning to those food banks for help. Neighborhood food banks are often small, and tucked away in churches or homes, but the tiny lifelines are feeling the brunt of challenging economic times.

“We know that we have a big job and we can do it,” said Reverend Rod R.D. Roberts, pastor at Good Shepherd Presbyterian church in Northglenn.

“We used to serve about 400 people a month. As of last Friday we have served about 725 people and we still have a couple more days to be open this month,” said Mary McCarron, volunteer manager of the Good Shepherd Presbyterian Food Bank.

read more via Volunteer Keeps Denver Church Food Bank Running – Denver News Story – KMGH Denver.

by Shirley Van Heukelem

Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper praised Denver’s First Christian Reformed Church as a model for his 10-year plan to end homelessness in the city.

Early in 2006 First CRC began a partnership with the Metro Denver Homeless Initiative. Seven church members volunteered to mentor a homeless family as they transitioned from homelessness to long-term housing. And the congregation contributed more than $2,400—enough money to fund two families in the program.

more via The Banner -Denver Church a ‘Model to End Homelessness’.