On a recent Thursday, the kitchen of Project Angel Heart in Denver buzzed with activity as volunteers prepared meals tailored to the needs of individuals battling severe illnesses. The nonprofit, now in its 34th year, delivered over 800,000 meals last year, serving more than 5,300 clients across Colorado. Each meal, crafted with care, represents not just food, but also a lifeline for those facing significant health challenges.
Project Angel Heart operates a commercial kitchen located at 4950 Washington St. The organization was founded in 1991 during the height of the HIV/AIDS epidemic when a group of friends provided a meal to a neighbor in need. This act of kindness has since expanded into a robust operation that now reaches clients from Pueblo to Fort Collins, with the aim of covering 75% of the Front Range.
David McCreedy, a dedicated volunteer for over 23 years, described the scene in the kitchen as a “ballet of chaos.” He emphasized the importance of the service, stating, “Piece by piece, every safety net — everything to help people — has been taken away. We’re the last line of that for a lot of these clients.” This sentiment captures the essence of Project Angel Heart’s mission: providing nourishment and dignity to those grappling with chronic illnesses.
Meals are specially designed to meet the dietary requirements of each client. For instance, individuals with kidney issues may receive meals that substitute high-potassium ingredients. Brett Newman, the executive chef, explained, “We can make a big batch of beautiful beef stew, but it has to go through our dietician. It has to be catered to that specific diet.” This commitment to individualized care ensures that each client receives not only sustenance but also food that supports their health.
The organization relies heavily on community support, particularly through fundraising initiatives such as the annual holiday campaign by The Denver Post Community Foundation, known as Season to Share. This campaign has provided essential funding, although recent legislative changes have posed challenges. Changes to Medicaid funding resulted in a significant financial impact, costing Project Angel Heart approximately $750,000 in funding. Despite this setback, Marti Macchi, the President and CEO, remains optimistic. She stated, “Our legacy here is so meaningful and so consistent… I know that people will step up to the challenge.”
Project Angel Heart employs 49 staff members and engages around 400 volunteers each week, all working towards a common goal: to provide nutritious meals and support to those in need. The organization maintains an annual budget of $7.5 million, demonstrating its substantial commitment to helping individuals in Colorado overcome the challenges associated with severe health conditions.
As Project Angel Heart continues its vital work, it aims to raise awareness about the role of food in healthcare. The organization seeks to broaden understanding of how nutrition can serve as a form of medicine and hopes to inspire similar initiatives across the country.
Those interested in supporting Project Angel Heart can visit their website for more information or to make a donation. The organization’s commitment to serving the community remains steadfast, ensuring that no one faces their health battles alone.
