Hunger is an issue no child should have to face
According to a survey completed in April 2021 by Hunger Free Colorado, 1 in 6 children are not receiving adequate nutrition. The COVID-19 pandemic amplified the issue and increased the number of families in need of support. Children at risk of hunger may be less equipped to reach their full academic potential and are more likely to experience developmental impairments in areas like language, motor skills, and behavior.
While there are other state and federal services that families can access, Backpack Friends and The Teller Pantry are a hyper local, community supported option for any family that is in need. We offer food and supplies at no cost to community members and strive to offer fresh, nutritious, and desirable food options for all families.
Our Pantry has recently undergone an expansion and renovation. The pantry inventory is primarily focused on food, however, we also strive to provide personal hygiene and home cleaning items when possible.
To visit and shop The Pantry:
- Visit during our Open Hours (Tuesday 12:30-2:30pm and Friday 7:15-9:30am and 12:30-5:00pm).
- Bring a reusable bag (we have some on site).
- Sign the visitor log (this is maintained only to have a record of visitors if there was an issue with one of the foods distributed. It is only viewed by the Backpack Friends Board of Directors and will not be shared or viewed by any other person).
- Take what you need, leave what you don't. If there is an abundance of a certain product, help yourself. If there is only one or two of something, please consider your neighbors.
- Consider recycling the packaging and composting what is not used.
Please reach out to backpackfriends@gmail.com with any questions!
Ways to Donate
Although Backpack Friends is supported by the Teller PTA, it is a separate 501c program and receives the majority of its funding from donations from our community.
