In the News

The Neighbor's Pantry has been featured in local media coverage highlighting our community efforts and the challenges we face in serving Colorado Springs.

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KOAA News5 coverage of The Neighbors Pantry
KOAA News5 November 2025

Community Pantry Offers Hope

A Colorado Springs mother turned concern about potential federal food assistance cuts into community action, creating a neighborhood food pantry that's helping families in need. When headlines warned that SNAP benefits might face funding shortages, K Harris drew from her own experience with food insecurity to build The Neighbor's Pantry from repurposed materials. What started as one family's response to potential benefit cuts has become a beacon of hope, receiving positive feedback and heartfelt gratitude from community members who rely on this essential service.

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Fox 21 News coverage of The Neighbors Pantry
Fox 21 News Colorado December 2025

Food Pantry and Bear Ordinance

A food pantry on the west side of Colorado Springs is closing due to alleged violations of city bear management ordinances. The pantry, operated by K. Harris, was cited for failing to secure food items stored outside, which the city says could attract wildlife. Harris started the pantry during the government shutdown to help those in need amid uncertainties regarding SNAP funding. Before the closure, it had been receiving positive feedback from the community. The City emphasized that unsecured food presents risks of attracting bears into residential neighborhoods, increasing the risk of property damage and harm to both humans and wildlife.

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KRDO NewsChannel 13 coverage of The Neighbors Pantry
KRDO NewsChannel 13 December 2025

Pantry Faces Closure Over Regulations

A neighborhood food pantry is facing potential closure after the City of Colorado Springs says it poses a safety risk in a designated bear management area. The outdoor pantry, located off Rockrimmon Road, was created when SNAP benefits were in limbo due to the fall government shutdown. K Harris and her husband wanted to help their neighbors provide food security. Even after benefits were reinstated, the pantry remained in high demand through community donations. Rather than shutting down, the Harrises made upgrades including a gate, latch-lock, and a sign reading "no bears allowed," but the city continues to cite bear management area violations.

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