NIWOT - Nonprofit Community Food Share distributed 7,155,870 meals to those in need of food assistance in Boulder and Broomfield counties during 2012.

The value of the food was $11,878,744, and it was distributed free of charge, according to a Food Share press release issued Tuesday, Feb. 5.

The food was distributed through a network of approximately 50 member agencies and Community Food Share's Direct Distribution programs.

The member agencies represent almost all of the agencies that provide food assistance in Boulder and Broomfield counties, including food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, residential treatment homes, after-school programs and emergency food box programs.

The Direct Distribution programs help to ensure that food is being distributed to a wide group of vulnerable populations, including low-income seniors and families with children enrolled in the School Free Lunch program in the Boulder Valley and St. Vrain Valley school districts.

In 2012, 2,429 community volunteers provided 35,539 hours of service to Community Food Share, which is the equivalent of 17 full-time employees.