As summer break begins, local food access groups are spreading the word about free meal programs available for children in Montezuma and Dolores counties.
The programs come as many families continue to feel pressure from the rising cost of living. A recent Montezuma County parent and caregiver stress survey found that more than 80% of respondents listed cost of living as their top stressor. Food access was also among the top concerns, with families pointing to the price of healthy food and the challenge of covering groceries along with other household expenses.
For families in Dolores County, children ages 5 to 18 can receive weekly food boxes through Dove Creek ROCK. Pickups begin Thursday, June 4, and each box includes five breakfasts and five lunches. Families can contact Dove Creek ROCK through Facebook or text 970-739-3562 with questions.
For families in Montezuma and Dolores counties, children ages 3 to 18 can receive weekly food boxes delivered to their homes by mail through Colorado Food Cluster. Those boxes include seven breakfasts and seven lunches.
Families can apply at app.coloradofoodcluster.com.
According to the Good Food Collective, the Dove Creek Rock program runs for 8 weeks starting June 4th. The Colorado Food Cluster program has already started and runs until the first week of school. Both programs are expected to have rolling enrollment.
Households may only participate in one program.
