LiftUp Steamboat Food Bank

LiftUp of Routt County operates a multi-faceted support hub in Steamboat Springs, anchored by its food bank, thrift store, and donation center. Founded in May 1996 by the Steamboat Springs Ministerial Association, the organization began with food bank and emergency assistance programs before opening its Community Thrift Store in October 1997. The Lufkin LiftUp Center, which houses the main Steamboat Springs operations and offices, was dedicated in January 2007. A significant expansion occurred in 2016 with the purchase of an adjacent building, and a capital campaign currently underway aims to raise $5.5 million to nearly double the facility's size.

The food bank serves up to one in seven Routt County residents annually, relying on donations to keep fresh, healthy quality food on the shelves. The organization also operates a Community Garden with raised beds to grow food for the banks. In 2024, the thrift store sold over 233,243 items, with all sales funding operations and programs. The Donation Center accepts in-kind goods on Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 AM to 4 PM, and Saturdays from 11 AM to 3 PM. These item donations are the sole contributor to the thrift store's inventory. LiftUp also provides financial assistance and emergency support services, aiming to strengthen self-sufficiency for families, children, and veterans.