Denver’s migrant meal expenses soar
Denver’s Spiraling Food Costs for Migrants: A Fiscal Challenge
In a move that underscores the city’s dedication to hospitality, Denver struck a deal with Colorado Hospitality Services in December 2023, pledging $100,000 to feed the tide of incoming migrants. Little did city officials expect that this was just the beginning of an escalating expense sheet.
Fast forward a year, and the contract underwent a meteoric rise, ballooning to $475,000 by January 2024. And the numbers kept climbing—a $450,000 leap the following month threw the budget planners for a loop.
As we head into the warmer months, the Denver City Council braces itself for an additional $500,000 required to sustain food costs until June—a staggering total soaring to $1.4 million.
“Due to the sustained high volume of newcomers, the current purchase order is exhausted and we are seeking to increase it again,” the city stated in a memo to the council explaining the reason for skyrocketing costs.
A Second Helping of Costly Contracts
But wait—there’s more on Denver’s plate. Another food provider for migrants, Michaels of Denver Catering, Inc., commenced with a $500,000 contract back in May 2023. Mere months later, in October, that figure doubled to $1 million. Now, with meals still to deliver through June, the city council is seasoning the deal with an extra $350,000.
These appetite-inducing figures reflect the ongoing story of nearly 40,000 migrants who have sought solace in Denver, drawn by its sanctuary city reputation. With every new arrival, the need and the costs continue to climb.
The Bigger Picture: Feeding Body and Soul
Aside from the crunching numbers, there’s a human story unfolding in Denver. The city has not only served meals to 39,605 migrants and asylum-seekers, but it has also provided shelter and other services. Despite these efforts, facing a growing deficit remains a grim reality as the welcome mat stays out and services persist.
Currently, Denver shelters 1,150 individuals and is in the process of winding down some of its temporary havens. Nonetheless, the fiscal imbalance is evident—the city is navigating a whopping $60 million budget deficit.
Mayor Mike Johnston projected that keeping up the current level of migrant services could cost taxpayers a striking amount, easily surpassing $100 million over the following year.
March 20th is a date that stands out on the council’s calendar, as the city anticipates amending two crucial contracts to make ends meet and continue its culinary commitments to those in need.
Despite the fiscal challenges, the story of Denver’s response to this migrant surge is one of commitment and community in the face of adversity. With substantial federal reimbursements pending and state support, Denver is a testament to a city’s resolve to care for its new residents.
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