Every summer, hundreds of community sites across Colorado offer nutritious meals for no cost to children and teenagers up to age 18 at safe locations. Here’s what you need to know:
What are the requirements for my child to receive a meal? Do I have to fill out an application form?
There is no application necessary to receive food at the sites listed on Hunger Free Colorado. Children and teens ages 1-18 can simply come during meal times to receive a meal. To adhere to food safety guidelines, children must eat their meals at the designated site and may not take food “to-go.” Adults may not eat from a child’s meal.
Is there a cost?
There is no cost for meals served to children. The USDA requires that meals be served at no charge to children ages 1-18. Summer food sites are not required to serve adults, however some offer meals to adults at a cost.
How do I find a feeding site in my area?
Go to KidsFoodFinder.org, our interactive map of Summer Food Sites, starting in late-May to search for sites in your area. Sites will pop up as they are open, and you can check back in throughout the summer to search for new sites. You can also call our toll free, bilingual hotline 855-855-4626 for help in locating a site, and to get connected to other food resources. Both English and Spanish speaking operators are available to assist you.
Do these sites offer activities?
Many, but not all, sites have enrichment and recreational activities. Some of these activities include arts and crafts, tutoring, mentoring, drama, or reading activities.
Who funds the Summer Food Service Program?
The Summer Food Service Program is federally funded under the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and administered by the Colorado Department of Education.
What kind of food is served at these sites?
Summer Food sites serve nutritionally balanced meals that meet USDA guidelines. All lunches, for example, include a serving of milk, two servings of fruits and/or vegetables, a serving of grains, and at least one serving of protein. Not all sites serve the same types of meals. Different sites may serve breakfast, snack, lunch, or even supper! Check on KidsFoodFinder.org to see what sites are serving in your area.
Author: Amber Johnson
Amber is the founder and editor of Mile High Mamas, travel writer and former columnist for The Denver Post. She is a passionate community builder and loves the outdoors. She has two awesome teens and is happily married to a man obsessed with growing The Great Pumpkin.
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