LAKEWOOD, Colo. — As it celebrates 71 years of serving communities, Natural Grocers has launched its anniversary festivities with a $71,000 product donation to Food Bank of the Rockies in partnership with Colorado-based Pop Your Vitamins. The contribution includes thousands of wholesome snack items and more than 20,000 functional wellness beverages that will help families experiencing food insecurity across Colorado and Wyoming.
The donation reflects more than a financial milestone—it represents a continued commitment to improving access to nutritious food for neighbors facing hunger while demonstrating how businesses and community partners can work together to create lasting local impact.
Natural Grocers said the donation builds on a relationship with Food Bank of the Rockies spanning more than two decades. Through customer-supported initiatives, including its Bring Your Own Bag Program and in-store fundraising campaigns, the company has contributed more than $1.3 million, helping provide more than four million meals throughout the region.
“For 71 years, Natural Grocers has believed that healthy communities start with access to nutritious food,” said Raquel Isely, vice president of marketing at Natural Grocers. “We’re honored to support Food Bank of the Rockies and grateful to collaborate with Pop Your Vitamins as we kick off our anniversary celebration. Together, we’re demonstrating the power of community partnerships to make a meaningful difference for our neighbors.”
According to Food Bank of the Rockies, food insecurity has climbed to its highest level in more than a decade, increasing the need for nutritious food donations and sustained community partnerships. The organization recently opened a new 270,000-square-foot distribution center in Aurora, Colorado, expanding its ability to store fresh food, accommodate volunteers, and increase produce distribution across the region.
“Right now, food insecurity is at its highest level in more than a decade, both locally and nationally,” said Mark Weslar, food sourcing director for Food Bank of the Rockies. “Because of committed partners like Natural Grocers, we can continue to show up for our neighbors with the nourishing food they need to thrive, wherever and whenever hunger rises.”
Pop Your Vitamins joined the effort by donating approximately 20,000 cans of its functional wellness beverages.
“At Pop Your Vitamins, we believe that taking care of yourself shouldn’t feel complicated or out of reach,” said Kelly Bond, marketing and social media manager for Pop Your Vitamins. “Food Bank of the Rockies does incredible work for Colorado and Wyoming families, and Natural Grocers has supported that mission for decades. We’re proud to partner with Natural Grocers by donating approximately 20,000 cans to help make healthy options more accessible for families across the region.”
Bruce Petillo, founder of Heartitude, said the story demonstrates how generosity becomes even more meaningful when organizations unite around a shared purpose.
“Real change happens when businesses see communities as partners instead of customers. Every meal shared is a reminder that compassion grows stronger when organizations work together to meet people where they are and help them move forward.” — Bruce Petillo
As food insecurity continues to affect millions of Americans, partnerships like this one illustrate how corporate giving, nonprofit leadership, and local collaboration can create healthier communities while inspiring others to take action through donations, volunteerism, and neighborhood support.