Imagine having to chose between eating gluten or not eating at all. While this appears to be a simple choice, for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, this decision could mean starving in the short term or facing long term, life threatening health consequences. <\/p>\n
Dee Valdez is helping to change that. This coming Tuesday in Loveland, Colorado a ribbon cutting ceremony will take place to formally open a new gluten free food bank at the House of Neighborly Services.<\/p>\n
The House of Neighborly Service will be the test site for a new program implemented by Valdez. A celiac herself, Valdez is designing the program in hopes that it will be implemented in communities across the country.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat I see that is missing is a systematic approach to feeding gluten free families in need,\u201d say Valdez.<\/p>\n
Gluten free food donations are now being accepted at House of Neighborly Service, 565 N. Cleveland, Loveland, CO 80537. It is asked that the food be identified as such when dropped off.<\/p>\n
Anyone available to deliver their gluten free food Tuesday, December 15, between 4 \u2013 6 pm can be part of an exclusive group dedicating the new gluten free section of the existing food bank with a Ribbon Cutting, Press Conference and Festivities. (The original date was postponed by a week due to inclement weather!)<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are excited to be able to provide an option for people with gluten sensitivities who are financially struggling, especially considering the cost of a gluten free diet,\u201d says Erin Becerra House of Neighborly Service Food Program Manager.<\/p>\n
“This is an opportunity to be part of a group setting a precedent that will spread nationwide,\u201d says Valdez. \u201cWe can make a difference. We can change someone\u2019s life.”<\/p>\n