Right now in Colorado, one in seven kids are at risk of food insecurity. Ensuring that children in our community have enough to eat is always a top priority for Food Bank of the Rockies, and meeting that need becomes an even more prescient challenge during the summer months.
“During the school year, many children regularly receive breakfast and lunch through their schools. But once school is out for the summer, the need for consistent and balanced meals increases significantly,” said Food for Kids Manager Kodi Phelps. “The Summer Food Service Program (SUN Meals) plays a significant role in combating ‘summer slump’ and ensuring that children are receiving all of the nutrition they need in order to set them up for success when they return in the fall.”
To make sure the children in our community continue to have access to food when school is out of session, we partner with the USDA Summer Food Service Program (SUN Meals), which provides parents and caregivers access to free, nutritious meals for children and teenagers. Simply enter your ZIP Code into the official Summer Meal Site Finder or text “FOOD or ENGLISH” or “COMIDA or SPANISH” to 304-304 to locate all the pick-up sites near you. (Note: The language you first use to text will be the language used to communicate with you moving forward.)
As a participating sponsor of this program, Food Bank of the Rockies provides around 2,900 nutritious meals and snacks daily to Hunger Relief Partners to distribute to kids facing hunger.
Childhood food insecurity is a complex issue, but you can make a difference. We encourage you to make a donation, become a monthly donor, or volunteer with us as you’re able. Together, we can nourish kids in our community.
Learn more about the Summer Food Service Program on our blog.
