Critical Needs Fund


Your Support Is Critical


The Critical Needs Fund is our fastest and most flexible way to respond to crises in our community and around the globe. This emergency fund can be activated for rapid response grantmaking when people need help in a hurry.

From July 1 through Aug. 1, 2026, 100% of every gift to The Denver Foundation’s Critical Needs Fund will go directly to trusted nonprofits serving organizations and volunteers that are providing shelter, meals, and emergency supplies in response to multiple Colorado wildfires amid hotter, drier climate conditions.  

This fund consists of donations large and small, and every little bit counts. From $250 – $1 million, your donation will make an immediate impact in the most critical situations.

In the past few years, the fund helped feed hungry families affected by the federal government’s freeze on SNAP benefits, and it supported communities rebuilding from natural disasters in Colorado and across the country. It’s a flexible fund that can be deployed quickly to address crises we can’t predict, such as the COVID-19 pandemic or other climate-related catastrophes.

While we hope for a bright future, we must prepare for the challenges ahead. Lend your hand to communities in crisis and donate today.

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Need Support?


The fund supports organizations that align with our mission, values, and objectives, but are not typically supported through The Denver Foundation’s core grantmaking. The Denver Foundation is always interested in good work happening in the community and welcomes information from organizations about their efforts. If you have a project you would like to discuss with us, contact Janet Lopez.

If you would like to learn more or need assistance making your gift, please contact us at help@denverfoundation.org or call 303.300.1790. 

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