Summer should be a fun and enriching time for all Colorado kids, but for many it represents a time when children are at the greatest risk of experiencing hunger, losing access to school meals. Hunger Free Colorado and many partners will address child hunger through a statewide summer food program. During the summer months, more than 450 sites across the state will provide meals to children between the ages of one and 18 years olds at no cost.
The Summer Food Service Program, funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, offers “food that’s in when school is out.” The program was established to fill the nutritional gap throughout the summer months and serve as a safeguard for children eligible for free or reduced-price meals during the school year, particularly those in households who may not know when or where they will get their next meal.
Free, nutritious meals are provided to children and teenagers at designated sites across Colorado. Sites include schools, churches, recreation centers and other safe community-based locations, and many provide activities for children as well. There are no income or registration requirements for participation.
The statewide program is supported by the USDA, Hunger Free Colorado, the Colorado No Kid Hungry Campaign, the Colorado Department of Education, and those providing the meals—the sites and sponsors.
Families can find other nearby summer food sites and learn more about the program by calling Hunger Free Colorado’s statewide hotline at (855) 855-4626, texting “FOOD” to (720) 432-3285 or visiting SummerFoodColorado.org.
-Michelle Ray