March 06, 2025
In Grand Junction, Colorado, Tanya Valencia has become a beacon of hope through her initiative, Big T’s, a community-driven effort to feed those in need. Based at the HomewardBound/United Way Unhoused Resource Center at 261 Ute Avenue, Tanya’s work provides meals and support to the unhoused, addressing a critical need in the region. Despite her contributions, many in the community are unaware of her efforts, making her a hidden hero whose story deserves recognition.
A Mission Rooted in Personal Experience
Tanya Valencia launched Big T’s as a direct response to her own life experiences. In a handwritten note, she shared, “I myself struggled with drugs, alcohol, and I’ve been homeless with my 2 sons, so I can relate to pretty much everyone that goes through it.” This personal connection to hardship fuels her dedication. What began as a small effort with just Tanya and her son has grown into a consistent operation with regular volunteers. On Thursday, February 27, 2025, Big T’s served 116 individuals at the Resource Center, a testament to its growing impact.
Overcoming Obstacles, Celebrating Successes
Big T’s faces significant challenges, particularly in securing resources. Tanya noted, “Biggest challenge is asking for help for items I need for serving.” However, her ability to cook has never been an issue. To overcome these obstacles, she created the Facebook group Big T’s Feeding Those In Need, which now serves as a platform to connect with supporters and gather donations. Her faith plays a central role in her perseverance. “I feel like a normal productive member of society, like I know this is God’s purpose for me,” she wrote, adding, “I love when they say the food was good and that they are full.” This feedback from recipients highlights the success of her efforts.
Building Community Through Shared Meals
At the HomewardBound/United Way Unhoused Resource Center, Big T’s events are a hub of activity. Tables are lined with an array of foods, including sandwiches, pastries, cupcakes, and pudding cups, all prepared and served by volunteers wearing aprons and gloves. The atmosphere is one of care and connection, with attendees finding not just nourishment but also a sense of belonging. Tanya’s hands-on approach ensures the operation runs smoothly—she coordinates food pickups from donors’ homes and accepts drop-offs at the Resource Center. Beyond the meals, Tanya fosters community ties by recognizing other local initiatives, such as Grand Valley Outreach Ministries, started by her friend Sarah Marie.
These photos give you a real feel for what goes down at Big T’s events at the HomewardBound/United Way Unhoused Resource Center in Grand Junction. You’ve got a table loaded with sweet treats like cupcakes with bright frosting, cookies, and pudding cups, ready to make everyone’s day a little sweeter in a big tented space with folks hanging out in the background. Then there’s a wider shot showing off long tables packed with all kinds of goodies—pastries, condiments, drinks, plus stuff like gloves and utensils—while the tent buzzes with volunteers and attendees at 261 Ute Avenue. Another snap catches the volunteers in the thick of it, dishing out sandwiches and pastries, rocking aprons and gloves, with trays of food and a line of people soaking in the community vibes.
Tanya Valencia herself is featured in the bottom right photo, smiling brightly with an infectious expression! The background reveals the bustling event at the Resource Center, emphasizing her joy and leadership in the initiative.
Support Needed to Sustain the Mission
With donations declining, Tanya has outlined ways the Grand Junction community can support Big T’s. Food donations can be dropped off at the HomewardBound/United Way Unhoused Resource Center at 261 Ute Avenue, or Tanya can arrange to pick them up directly from donors’ homes. Monetary contributions are also critical and can be made through several platforms:
- Venmo: jessevalencia496
- Cash App: jstpaying (under Jesse Valencia)
- Zelle: 970-361-7374 (under Tanya Valencia)
- GoFundMe: Help Tanya Provide Meals for Those in Need
Tanya expressed her gratitude for community support, stating, “Donations have went down a lot keep rocking girly,” in a message encouraging continued involvement.
Looking Ahead with Hope
Tanya’s vision for Big T’s is to maintain its current efforts while expanding its reach. “My goal is to keep doing what we’re doing,” she wrote, “and I’m looking for other organizations that can help and join them on their journey.” Her events at the Resource Center continue to grow, driven by her faith and commitment to service. Tanya finds deep fulfillment in her work, noting, “It makes me happy serving my Lord.” Future collaborations, such as with Sarah Marie’s Grand Valley Outreach Ministries, may further amplify her impact.
Call to Action: Nominate Your Community Hero
Tanya Valencia’s Big T’s demonstrates the profound difference one person can make in Grand Junction. Her story is a call to recognize other unsung heroes in the community. Do you know someone making an impact like Tanya? Nominate them for our “Community Heroes” series by visiting our Contact Us page. Share their story, and let’s shine a light on the incredible people making a difference—because with heroes like Tanya leading the way, there’s so much more good to uncover!
Ashes on Air 
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