An Arvada food pantry that’s been in operation for more than 40 years will remain in the city.
The City of Arvada purchased a building over 15,000 square-feet with the intent of transferring the Community Table to the new property. The emergency food shelter will be moving from its current leased space at 8555 W. 57th Ave. to 4600 W. 60th Ave. later this year, according to a press release from the City of Arvada.
Arvada spent $3.05 million on the building, a spokesperson confirmed.
The emergency food shelter, which began as the Arvada Food Bank, has been serving northern Denver metro citizens with food insecurity since 1982. Through “volunteers and dedication,” the pantry grew to be one of the largest emergency food shelters in the region, according to the news release.
The new property is located near Tennyson Street and the RTD Gold Strike Station, allowing people to access it via public transit lines.
Arvada Mayor Lauren Simpson said in the press release that she is pleased the city was able to purchase the property to help continue long-term success for the pantry.
“The property uniquely offers all of the assets we were looking for: walkability to both bus and train transit, proximity to green space and job opportunities, and access to the robust resources available from Adams County,” Simpson said. “The City has supported Community Table and their work for decades, and I look forward to continuing this partnership long into the future.”
In 2014, Community Table reached beyond food services by adding a “hand up to our mission,” according to the food pantry’s website. These services include emergency financial assistance for rent and utilities, public benefits application assistance, a client computer room and more.
In 2019, the nonprofit organization began hosting shower services for people experiencing homelessness, laundry services and a free onsite health clinic.
“We are delighted for this opportunity to expand our operations in a uniquely suitable new location, especially given the growing number of struggling families and unsheltered individuals in our community,” Sandy Martin, president and CEO of Community Table, said in the release.
The building will need renovations before Community Table moves in, according to the release. Clients, volunteers and interested community members are encouraged to join Community Table’s email list.