Clayton was thrilled to receive another grant from the City of Denver's Healthy Food for Denver’s Kids initiative, designed to address the food gap across Denver and improve food access for low-income and at-risk youth

Clayton's participation was featured in a Denver7 article and feature on the new round of grants (Denver expands hunger relief with $11 million in grants):

"One of the largest recipients this year is Clayton Early Learning, which received $1 million to support its efforts, including its no-cost grocery store and expand nutrition programming for families with young children at Clayton Early Learning.

“Here at Clayton, we run the Clayton Cares Market, where families can come in, grab what they need, and walk out – no checkout, no payment,” said Nichelle Ortiz, Senior Manager of Food and Nutrition Initiatives.

Ortiz says access to healthy food early in life can shape how children eat as they grow up.

“Families are being forced to make really tough decisions,” Ortiz said. “And sometimes, healthier options just aren’t affordable or accessible. This funding helps us keep our shelves full and dignified.”

With additional support, Clayton hopes to grow its community gardens and expand nutrition education for parents and children alike."

Read more about the more than $11 million in grants distributed through the Healthy Food for Denver’s Kids initiative here.