Originally called MSC Helping Hands, the food pantry was founded in May 2006 by Jean Woolsey as a ministry of Mountain Springs Church. Jean started the pantry in part of a building at Falcon Storage, which she and her husband own. It is because of Jean’s vision, charity, and work that the pantry was formed. It was established to serve individuals and families in need, primarily in Falcon and to the north and east, where much poverty exists. Jean had seen the poverty firsthand as she traveled through the areas; and, as a result, developed a heart to serve those in need. Jean realized that these were “neighbors” who needed some ongoing assistance during their difficult times.
In April of 2008 the pantry became its own 501(c)3 nonprofit organization under the name of High Plains Helping Hands, Inc., so that our whole community, not just one church, could work cooperatively to provide for our neighbors in need. Although originally started only as a food pantry, our goal is to serve the various needs of low-income families as such needs come to our attention and as we have the volunteers, finances, and other means to meet them. Therefore, we have grown to address the following additional needs of families:
coats, hats, gloves, blankets, school supplies, Christmas toys, children’s Easter baskets, and Thanksgiving and Christmas meal bags. In addition to this, we provide spiritual and emotional support through prayer and encouragement.
In October of 2009, Rose Mizer was chosen as the new Director of Helping Hands. Rose was volunteering at the pantry for three years, the last two of which she served as the Administrator. Rose's passion is team leadership and is currently working to build a strong team of leaders with each one specializing in a particular area. She enjoys building relationships and working with volunteers and clients alike. When she is not devoting time to the pantry she enjoys spending time with her Grandkids, her wonderful husband Wayne and gardening.
HPHH seeks to receive financial and other donation support from local churches, businesses, organizations, and individuals. It operates through the numerous service hours of our dedicated volunteers who pick up food, stock and organize it, pack food bags for clients, pray, plan and conduct special events, answer phone calls, enter information into the database, and serve on the board of directors.
HPHH distributes food monthly to over 150 families, serving over 400 individuals, in the following zip code areas: 80808, 80828, 80830, 80831, 80832, 80833, 80835, and 80864. Many of our clientele are elderly, disabled, and/or unemployed. As the number of families we serve continues to grow and as we increase our services to these families, our organization’s critical needs, including food and more financial support, have also increased dramatically. It is our desire to be seen as a community service agency that is supported by the local churches, businesses, and families in the community.
Our History
Our Founder: Jean Woolsey
Pantry Director: Rose Mizer
