County approves $16,000 emergency support for Norwood food pantry

San Miguel County commissioners approved $16,000 in emergency funding Sept. 17 to help the Fresh Foundation (the Norwood Food Pantry) secure temporary space after the Norwood School District required the pantry to vacate its annex by the end of the year.

Why it matters: The pantry serves roughly 400 households a month and provides a vital food-distribution function for the West End and Norwood-area residents. The pantry has relied on donated or low-cost space; a lease would raise operating costs materially and jeopardize service unless additional funding is secured.

Request and board action: Executive Director Stephanie Greenup told commissioners the pantry learned in mid-July it must vacate the annex; the pantry currently pays $100 to the school and estimates one-year operating costs would rise to roughly $80,000 if forced into market-rate space. Greenup asked the county to provide bridge funding while the foundation pursues grants and private donations. The board approved a $16,000 emergency appropriation from county resources for calendar-year 2025 support and directed staff to document terms; commissioners discussed possible grant follow-ups for 2026 during the next budget cycle.

Funding and conditions: Commissioners said the award will be treated as emergency community support funding; staff will draft an agreement documenting use of funds and any expected repayment should other funds become available. Commissioners also discussed whether neighboring jurisdictions or grant sources (including Montrose-area partners and Food Bank networks) could contribute; staff will coordinate follow-up outreach.

Ending: The Fresh Foundation said it will use the funding to secure short-term space and continue operations while pursuing grant awards and donor fundraising. Commissioners asked for periodic updates on the pantry's long-term location plan.