A Simple Text Message Can Help End Summer Hunger in Denver

As summer approaches, children across Denver look forward to long, carefree days away from school. But for too many local families, the break from school means a break from reliable access to food.

One in three Colorado families struggles to afford groceries. During the school year, no-cost breakfast and lunch programs are a lifeline. When schools close, that lifeline disappears. This seasonal gap leaves thousands of children at risk of going hungry, just when their growing bodies and developing brains need nutrition the most.

The good news? A new solution is already in our hands, literally.

Lantern, a Denver-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting caregivers and families, has launched a free text messaging service to connect parents to food resources throughout the year and especially during the summer months. It’s as simple as texting the word MEAL to 274 448.

Once signed up, parents receive weekly messages with tailored information about local food distribution sites, federal nutrition programs like WIC and SNAP, and other resources based on their zip code. The messages are short, friendly and practical, offered in English, Spanish, and Arabic, and always private. No forms, no judgment. Just help.

Families often don’t access programs not because they don’t qualify, but because they don’t know what’s available, how to sign up, or even where to start. The MEAL program removes those barriers with a low-tech, high-impact solution. A growing number of parents are already benefiting: 75 percent of surveyed users say the messages have helped reduce their food insecurity.

The MEAL program is part of Lantern’s broader mission to support parents from pregnancy through a child’s eleventh birthday with expert-backed, age-specific messages that promote healthy development and family well-being. Families across Colorado currently receive Lantern’s texts, building stronger bonds and brighter futures, one message at a time.

We often talk about ending hunger, supporting families, or building equity, but programs like MEAL are how we do it. No family should have to face the stress of an empty fridge, especially when solutions are this simple and accessible.

This summer, let’s make sure every Denver child has what they need to grow strong and thrive. If you’re a parent and would like help getting healthy food for your family, text MEAL to 274 448 or visit mylantern.org/meal. If you’re a community leader, advocate, or neighbor, spread the word.

Sometimes, a text message can change everything.

Jodie Fishman is the chief content officer for Lantern.

Westword.com publishes commentaries on matters of interest to the community on weekends; the opinions are those of the authors, not Westword. Have one you'd like to submit? Send it to [email protected], where you can also comment on this piece.