(720) 663-8222 info@thelionproject.org

2025 PARTNERSHIP WITH 
DENVER PUBLIC SCHOOL’S
F.A.C.E DEPARTMENT

The Lion Project: Innovating Solutions to Food Insecurity in Denver


Our Mission
We are committed to eradicating food insecurity in the Denver Metro Area by creating innovative solutions that serve vulnerable children and families. Through partnerships with schools, businesses, and community members, The Lion Project deploys impactful resources where they are needed most.

The Challenge
Over 40% of households in Denver’s disproportionately impacted neighborhoods live below 200% of the federal poverty line. Many of these areas are food deserts, where families lack access to fresh and nutritious food. This food insecurity affects children’s health, academic performance, and overall community well-being.

Our Solution: Shipping Container Food Markets
To address this crisis, we are launching The Mark, an innovative program that places fully functional food markets—constructed from shipping containers—directly on school grounds. These portable, sustainable markets serve as resource hubs, providing:

  • Fresh, nutritious food
  • Educational programs such as financial literacy, GED support, and nutrition workshops
  • A central space for fostering community resilience and security

By the Numbers

  • Cost per Container: $65,000 – $100,000 (including logistics)
  • Pilot Goal: Serve 100 families weekly in 3–4 schools by the end of 2025
  • Long-Term Vision: Expand to 50 schools in Denver, transforming neighborhoods and eradicating food insecurity

Why It Matters
Access to nutritious food is critical for children to succeed in school and life. By meeting families where they are—on school grounds—we eliminate barriers like transportation and create a reliable source of support. These markets don’t just deliver food; they offer hope and a sense of community.

Impact on the Community

  • Reducing food deserts in neighborhoods like Montbello, Green Valley Ranch, and Westwood
  • Empowering parents through education and resource access
  • Enhancing children’s academic performance and well-being

How You Can Join Us

Partner With Us
We’re building a coalition of businesses, nonprofits, and community leaders to bring this vision to life. Opportunities include:

  • Sponsorships: Fund a container and be recognized as a community leader
  • Volunteering: Join hands with local families to restock and maintain markets
  • In-Kind Donations: Provide fresh produce or educational resources

Volunteer Spotlight:
Each container will have a dedicated team of community volunteers who ensure weekly operations run smoothly. Training and resources are provided to empower these leaders to create a lasting impact.

Our Vision for the Future

“You Can Leave a Mark in This Life.”
By scaling this program across the Denver Metro Area, we aim to create a nationwide model for addressing food insecurity. With your help, we can transform the lives of families and inspire sustainable change in communities.

Success Stories

“I no longer worry about where our next meal will come from. The food market has brought hope back into our lives.” – A Denver Parent
“The Mark has created a sense of belonging and care in our school community.” – Local Volunteer

Impact to Date

A Milestone Achieved: $130,000 Raised at the 11th Annual Lion’s Gala

Thanks to your incredible support, we’re closer to transforming the way families in Denver’s Title One schools access critical resources.

🎉 What Your Support Has Achieved So Far:

  • 1 Fully Stocked Shipping Container: A mini-market providing essential food and supplies for families in need.
  • Immediate Impact:
    • $200 worth of groceries per family per week
    • $1,040,000 annual economic impact per container—a 10x return on investment!

 

Join the Movement

Together, we can make a difference. To sponsor a container or learn more about volunteer opportunities, visit thelionproject.org. Let’s build a brighter future for Denver’s children—one container at a time.