Skip to Main Content

 View All News


Great Plates of Downtown™ Raises $104,350 for Food Bank for Larimer County

Fort Collins, COLO – April 1, 2025 – The Fort Collins Downtown Development Authority (DDA), in partnership with 51 restaurants, announced today that the 2025 Great Plates of Downtown™ promotion raised $104,350 for the Food Bank for Larimer County.

From March 1–14, diners enjoyed special menus from participating downtown restaurants, with meal deals priced at $25, $35, $45, and $15 & Under. Proceeds supported hunger relief efforts across Larimer County. In its 20th year, the Great Plates promotion continues to showcase Fort Collins’ vibrant culinary scene and generous community spirit.

To celebrate the anniversary, diners had a chance to find a Golden Ticket Cocktail Napkin and win prizes in partnership with the Armstrong Hotel, The Elizabeth Hotel, Edwards House, and Downtown Fort Collins Gift Cards.

“What an incredible way to mark 20 years of Great Plates,” said Amy Pezzani, CEO of the Food Bank for Larimer County. “We’re truly grateful for the generosity of our community and the incredible talent of our restaurant partners. Thanks to their support and the thousands who dined out, our hunger-relief programs can continue serving more than 50,000 people across Larimer County. Every dollar raised helps provide nutritious food to our neighbors in need. By participating in Great Plates, you’ve helped ensure someone else has a full plate. Thank you for making a meaningful difference.”

Ron, a Food Bank client and retired housing professional, shared how critical this support is for his family. “Without the Food Bank, I would have very little in terms of food,” he said. “I’m just trying to piece together meals from day to day.” He shared that about half his groceries come from the Food Bank.

The DDA also recognized this year’s top five fundraising restaurants: The Melting Pot, Rodizio Grill, Social, Union Bar & Soda Fountain, and The Still Whiskey Steaks. Walrus Ice Cream collected the highest number of individual donations.

“This promotion’s impact over 20 years is remarkable,” said Ty Fulcher, founder of Social and co-owner of Rodizio Grill, Union, and The Melting Pot. “We're honored to support the Food Bank for Larimer County, an amazing cause close to our hearts. The collective effort of our staff, guests, and sister restaurants – resulting in over $50,000 – highlights the power of the Northern Colorado community. We extend our sincere gratitude to all who contributed.”

Since 2008, the Great Plates of Downtown dining promotion has aligned with community efforts to raise funds for the Food Bank for Larimer County, generating $1,367,340. This is a testament to the community’s generosity and the unwavering commitment of its participating downtown restaurants.

Great Plates of Downtown will return again in March 2026, continuing the tradition of great plates for a greater purpose.

About the Fort Collins Downtown Development Authority

Established in 1981, the Fort Collins Downtown Development Authority (DDA) works to revitalize the central business district by combining public and private investment and supporting community-driven initiatives. The DDA’s Business Marketing and Communications Program, launched in 2020, promotes economic, cultural, and social vitality through both traditional and innovative strategies.

For more information, visit downtownfortcollins.org and downtownfortcollins.com and follow us on Instagram and Facebook. 

About the Food Bank for Larimer County

The Food Bank for Larimer County is a private, nonprofit organization and the only Feeding America clearinghouse for donated food in Larimer County. Through community partnerships, the Food Bank’s hunger-relief programs provide services to more than 50,000 people in need. Driven by the belief that no one should go hungry, staff and volunteers work every day to deliver health, hope, and humanity to stabilize lives and build a vibrant community. To learn more, visit foodbanklarimer.org.

Media Contact