NMTCs helped finance the construction of a new facility in Aurora, CO. The new distribution center will increase capacity of food storage and production by 109,000 SF to better support program expansion to rural communities. Pantry sites will be established at 20 additional schools in underserved rural areas, with the potential to engage over 100+ new rural partners by 2028. NMTCs were a key funding source addressing critical needs of the region, particularly in light of rising inflation. Without NMTC financing, the expansion would be significantly delayed or scaled back limiting the ability to address food insecurity. In addition to creating jobs, the new facility will enable increased farmer sourcing and quadruple the capacity for volunteer operations pivotal to the Food Bank’s mission.