Several Grand Junction-area ranchers and producers donated 1,300 pounds of beef to several local nonprofits, including Food Bank of the Rockies, Clifton Christian Church, Canyon View Vineyard Church, Hope of the Grand Valley, Catholic Outreach and The Joseph Center.

The ranchers, who wish to remain anonymous, reached out to a local producer with cows it wanted to give away. The discussion sparked the idea to donate the cows and provide the processed meat to local neighbors facing food insecurity.

Mountain Meats, a local meat processor, also joined the cause by donating all of the processing fees, allowing the beef to reach the community without additional costs.

Protein, especially meat, is one of the most sought-after items from Food Bank of the Rockies’ Hunger Relief Partners across the Western Slope.

“On behalf of all the organizations that received this donation, we are incredibly grateful to our agricultural community, especially as the need for food assistance is higher than we’ve seen in years,” said Sue Ellen Rodwick, Food Bank of the Rockies Western Slope Director. “Our mission is centered around igniting the power of community, and our agricultural partners are essential in making that a reality.”

In addition to traditional food donations, Food Bank of the Rockies accepts animal donations from producers and farms. Producers or farms interested in donating can contact the Food Bank at 970-464-1138.